Originally Posted by
CZAMFlyer
The passenger wasn't thinking very clearly at all when he thought it might be a good idea to inform the check-in staff of his prescription. What reaction was he expecting? Legal, illegal or grey-area: why draw attention to yourself? Maybe next trip he'll be smarter and leave his carry-on closed and quietly carry the prescription forms in his pocket in case the screeners have any questions.
Well the problem there is if you aren't sure of the rules yourself, you don't want to be caught breaking them.
The agent was technically correct.
I once informed an agent I had a paintball gun. I thought I had read the website thoroughly and understood all the rules. I'd missed an important one, that the agent was quick to point out. Paintball gun stayed in Toronto.
Had I tried to check the bag, I'm sure customs or security would have been waiting for me at my departure gate. Or worse, it would have made it to YVR but then been stuck there.
So no, I can't say I'd be in favour of recommending a passenger just keep quiet*, because he WAS breaking a rule, even if it was a stupid rule.
*at least for issues of prescription medication, where dumping it and flying without it probably isn't an option