Originally Posted by
dmsdfw
It's not just China - I've had the same problem on a CX flight from HKG (technically part of China I know, but a separate country for immigration purposes).
It would be good to know who imposed this rule. I can't believe that the TSA would have any jurisdiction over a non-US carrier (CX in my case) departing from outside the US. Also, why impose it? I could almost understand not allowing duty free purchases in an airport if the integrity of security at that airport was in question, but why ban on-board purchases?
I've had the same happen at HKG heading back to SFO. All liquids were confiscated/thrown away, however I was allowed to purchase duty free on the plane and put it into my checked bag once I got it to clear customs in SFO.
It's pretty silly, the first time I saw it I had just gotten some food and a drink and had to discard the drink before boarding.
--wes