Hello and thank you for reading my post. I've researched the issue or question of carrying external hard drives onboard an airplane (in a carry-on suitcase), and it is 'acceptable.' However in the case of a 'documentary filmmaker' myself being a 70 year old traveler, its not uncommon to have #8 or more 'bare hard drives' for a film project, assuming of course I can physically fit several 1/2" X 6" drives in a typical suitcase. American says its 'ok' but suggested I also check with TSA.GOV Thank You!