Here's a new one (for me).

At the business class check in on AA CDG-ORD, the AA-employed security lady who was doing the routine questions asked if I had any lighters or matches in my carry-on. After telling her I had matches, she advised me that matches are forbidden in carry-on bags. I said that I knew that lighters were forbidden but that I could have up to four books of matches with me. She said "No, you may have a cigarette outside the terminal before going through the security line but must dispose of your matches." I said "I think you're incorrect but okay."

Of course, I ignored her and my matches (and, as I discovered while unpacking at home, a lighter) went through security just fine. And, of course, there were many people smoking away in the smoking sections once I passed through security.

I don't feel it's worth reporting to AA but just wanted to say I'm sure glad I read these forums here at FT and have a good idea of what's actually allowed.

I would suggest that it is worth reporting this person to AA, their employer. It is yet another example of airline personal either making up or not understanding their own security rules. They need to be educated.

This happens at LHR also, the AAgents ask this same question. It must be some sort of policy they have at Euro locations. Why? Who knows... Paranoia?

why not just carry a copy of the "permitted/prohibitted" list from the tsa website and simply show the agent that matches (up to 4 books) are allowed in carry on but not checked luggage. it worked for me and when asked why i travel with a copy of the list, i simply informed the agent (and supervisor) that it was exactly for this purpose-to train when there are "inconsistencies and irregularities".

main page:
http://www.tsa.gov/public/interapp/e...orial_1012.xml

link to "permitted/prohinited" list:
http://www.tsa.gov/public/interweb/a...ited_Facts.doc

I like the fact that you can edit the Word document before printing it out in case you want to bring prohibited items on board and dupe the security staff into thinking it is allowed.

you noticed that too, didn't you . it used to be a pdf which was "a bit better"