SOCHI, Russia — Despite a temporary Russian ban on liquids in carry-on luggage, some air travelers heading to the Sochi Olympics through Moscow have brought toothpaste and other toiletries past security checkpoints without any problems.
Security concerns ahead of the Sochi Games were renewed after the U.S. Homeland Security Department warned airlines flying to Russia that terrorists might try to smuggle explosives into the country in toothpaste tubes.
Yet six Associated Press employees arriving in Moscow from across the world or beginning their journey there passed through security without having to remove toothpaste, hand lotion or water bottles from their carry-on luggage.
Other air travelers heading to Sochi also said their experience of Russian airport security was surprisingly hassle-free.
“It was pretty chill. I had an empty 1½- liter water bottle because I was hoping to fill it up on the plane, but no one checked it,” said Matt Segal, an Australian tourist who traveled from Moscow to Sochi on Thursday. “No one has pulled it out and asked about it.”
The no-liquids rule applies to anyone departing from a Russian airport, including transit passengers, said Russian Transport Ministry spokeswoman Nataliya Nesterova. She said it was up to airports to make sure it is enforced. Moscow airport officials didn’t immediately return calls Thursday seeking comment about enforcement of the ban, which runs from January to April, well after the Olympics and Paralympics end.
