Man Tries to Smuggle Turtle Onto Plane… in His Pants

A Pennsylvania man attempted to smuggle a live red-eared slider turtle through security at Newark Liberty International Airport by concealing it in his pants. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers discovered the turtle during a routine screening, leading to the man’s detention and the turtle’s confiscation. The TSA noted that while they’ve encountered various concealed items, this was an unusual case of attempting to hide a live animal in such a manner.

Southwest Airlines announced that, starting May 28, 2025, it will end its longstanding “Bags Fly Free” policy, introducing fees for checked baggage. Exceptions will be made for top-tier Rapid Rewards A-List Preferred members and Business Select fare passengers, who can still check two bags for free, while A-List members and Southwest credit card holders will receive one free checked bag. This strategic shift aims to boost profitability and aligns Southwest’s baggage policies more closely with those of its competitors.