Airport Security: A Global Comparison Of Screening Measures

Airport security measures vary across the world. In the US, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) enforces rules such as body scanners, a limit on liquids, and electronics rules depending on the machine. In Europe, the use of body scanners is also common, but passengers have the right to opt-out and choose an alternative method, such as a hand search.

In some countries, security checks are more stringent for international flights compared to domestic flights. For example, in Australia, non-travellers are allowed to access the airside area, but they must undergo the same security scans as travellers. In Japan, the government has introduced new guidelines for airport security checks, marking a shift from its previous approach, which relied on airlines to conduct security inspections.

Airport security procedures can include metal detectors, millimetre wave scanners, explosive detection machines, and walk-through body scanning. The level of security and specific measures implemented can depend on various factors, such as the country's geopolitical position and its experience with terrorist attacks.

Body scanners vs metal detectors

Metal detectors and body scanners are both used in airports to detect prohibited items and ensure the safety of passengers and staff. However, there are some key differences between the two technologies.

Metal detectors use a low-intensity magnetic field to identify metal objects, while body scanners use either backscatter X-ray or millimeter-wave technology to detect both metallic and non-metallic objects. Metal detectors are typically walk-through arches that passengers pass through, while body scanners are often enclosed booths that passengers step into and raise their arms.

Backscatter X-ray scanners use low-energy X-rays to scan the body, penetrating the outer layer of clothing and skin. These scanners can reveal objects hidden under clothing and have been known to display detailed images of passengers' bodies, leading to privacy and health concerns. Due to these concerns, backscatter X-ray scanners have been phased out in many countries, including the United States, and replaced with millimeter-wave scanners.

Millimeter-wave scanners use non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation in the form of low-level radio waves to create a 3D image of the body. They operate at a frequency of about 30 GHz, with a wavelength of 10 millimeters, and have a penetration depth of about one millimeter. This allows them to pass through clothing but reflect off the body. The reflected waves are then detected by the scanner to create an image. Millimeter-wave scanners are considered safer than backscatter X-ray scanners and are now the preferred technology in many countries.

In terms of effectiveness, both metal detectors and body scanners have their advantages and disadvantages. Metal detectors are good at detecting metallic objects but may miss non-metallic items. Body scanners, on the other hand, can detect both metallic and non-metallic objects, making them more effective at spotting potential threats. However, body scanners have been known to malfunction and produce false alarms, and they are also more cumbersome and expensive.

Overall, both metal detectors and body scanners play an important role in ensuring airport security. Metal detectors are typically used as the primary screening method, with body scanners used as a secondary screening option for those who require additional screening or prefer not to pass through a metal detector. The choice between the two depends on various factors, including airport rules and regulations, personal preferences, and the presence of medical implants.

Liquids restrictions

In the US, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) enforces the 3-1-1 rule for carry-on liquids: travellers can carry containers of no more than 3.4 ounces (100ml) of liquid, which must fit in a clear one-quart bag. Only one bag is allowed per passenger. Liquids that don't meet these requirements will be confiscated. The TSA considers substances such as aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes as liquids. Exemptions are made for baby food and drinks, breast milk, ice packs, and medical prescriptions.

In the UK, the same 100ml limit per container applies, with liquids needing to be in a single, transparent bag of no more than one litre in size. There are exemptions for essential medical purposes, dietary requirements, and baby food. Liquids bought at duty-free are allowed if they are sealed inside a security bag with the receipt. From 2024, the liquid limit in hand luggage will be increased to 2 litres at all major UK airports, thanks to the introduction of high-tech CT scanners, which provide a more detailed view of luggage contents.

Some airports in Europe, including in Milan, Rome, and Paris, have already removed restrictions on the volume of liquids, provided they fit inside cabin baggage. However, the 100ml rule still applies across Europe as a whole, and at many airports. Spain is expected to lift the volume restriction by 2026.

Screening methods

Airport security screening methods have been strengthened since the 9/11 terrorist attacks, with measures such as carry-on baggage screening, reporting of unattended packages, and pat-down procedures being implemented worldwide. Here is an overview of the screening methods employed by different countries and regions:

• United States - The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screens approximately 3.3 million carry-on bags and 1.3 million checked bags daily for explosives and other dangerous items. They use advanced imaging technology, walk-through metal detectors, and pat-down procedures to detect metallic and non-metallic threats. The TSA has also introduced a pre-screening programme to identify high and low-risk passengers.
• European Union - Post-9/11, the European Commission established common rules and basic standards for all civil airports, including screening of passengers, luggage, and freight. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) published guidelines to protect staff and passengers, emphasising social distancing and hygiene protocols.
• Canada - The Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) uses x-ray machines, metal detectors, explosive trace detection, and random physical searches for passenger screening. They also use x-ray machines, CTX machines, high-resolution x-rays, and explosive trace detection for checked baggage screening.
• Australia - Non-travellers are generally not restricted from accessing airside areas, but they are subject to the same security scans as travellers.
• Finland - Passenger, luggage, and freight security checking is outsourced to contractors, while general public security is handled by the Finnish Police, which has an airport unit at Helsinki Airport.
• France - France established the Vigipirate program to reinforce security after terrorist attacks in 1986. Security checkpoints are operated by private companies hired by airport authorities.
• Iceland - As a member of the European Economic Area, Iceland has adopted EC Regulation No. 300/2008 for all international flights, but domestic flights are exempt due to the country's geographical remoteness and small aircraft size.
• Netherlands - Airport security is provided by the Koninklijke Marechaussee, Royal Military Constabulary, and private security companies. Schiphol Airport has implemented CT scans for passenger filters, allowing passengers to keep their liquids and electronics in their bags.
• Spain - Airport security is provided by police forces and private security guards. The Policía Nacional handles general security, passport checks, and documentation checking, while the Guardia Civil handles security and customs checking.
• Sweden - Airport security is handled by security guards provided by the airport, with police assistance if needed. Sweden traditionally had minimal security checks but introduced them for international and domestic flights following international regulations and the September 11 attacks.
• United Kingdom - The Department for Transport and the Civil Aviation Authority govern airport security. The UK trialled backscatter X-ray machines for passenger screening but replaced them with millimetre-wave scanners that show hidden items without displaying the passenger's body.
• Hong Kong - Airport security is provided by the Hong Kong Police Force and the Aviation Security Company (AVSECO). All persons and their baggage must be screened at security checkpoints.
• India - The Central Industrial Security Force, a paramilitary organisation, is in charge of airport security. They have formed Airport Security Units to counter unlawful interference with civil aviation.
• Israel - Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv, considered the safest airport in the world, implements stringent security measures. These include monitoring aircraft and passengers entering Israeli airspace, checkpoints for vehicles, and interrogation of passengers. Israeli security officers use racial profiling and questioning to identify potential threats.
• Pakistan - The Airports Security Force (ASF) is responsible for protecting airports, facilities, and planes, adopting counter-terrorism measures, and maintaining law and order.
• Singapore - Airport security falls under the purview of the Airport Police Division of the Singapore Police Force, with a focus on Changi Airport due to its high volume of passenger traffic. Security screening uses X-ray machines, and liquid restrictions of 100ml are enforced.

These examples demonstrate the diverse range of screening methods employed by different countries and regions to ensure the safety and security of passengers, staff, and aircraft.

Airport security staff

The specific duties of airport security staff can vary depending on the airport and the country, but some common responsibilities include:

• Screening passengers, baggage, and cargo using X-ray machines, metal detectors, and physical inspections to detect prohibited items and ensure compliance with regulations.
• Operating advanced security equipment, such as body scanners and explosive detection systems, to identify potential threats.
• Patrolling airport premises, including terminals and restricted areas, to prevent and detect signs of intrusion and ensure the security of access points.
• Checking identification and travel documents to verify access privileges to secure areas.
• Responding to security incidents and emergencies, providing first response until additional law enforcement or emergency services arrive.
• Managing crowd control and guiding passengers during regular operations and emergency situations.
• Conducting investigations into minor crimes and suspicious activities, gathering evidence, and reporting to law enforcement as needed.
• Performing inspections of airport fencing and perimeters to identify and address potential security vulnerabilities.

In some countries, airport security staff may also work closely with police and immigration officials. Their role may include questioning suspicious individuals, enforcing rules regarding flight boarding and passenger behaviour, and attending court as a witness in cases involving illegal activities.

The level of technology used in security checks can vary between airports and countries. While some airports utilise advanced CT scanning technology, others rely on basic X-ray machines or metal detectors. This can lead to differences in security procedures, such as whether passengers need to remove shoes, laptops, or liquids during screening.

Overall, airport security staff play a vital role in maintaining a safe and secure environment for air travel, and their presence provides reassurance to passengers and staff alike.

Security measures for non-passengers

In the UK, non-passengers are allowed to go beyond security at Heathrow, Birmingham, East Midlands, Newcastle, and Glasgow airports.

In Australia, non-travellers are not restricted from accessing the airside area, but they are subject to the same security scans as travellers.

In Spain, non-passengers are required to scan their luggage before entering the airport, and to remove their shoes at security before boarding.

In Canada, non-passengers are subject to random security screening.

In Chile, non-passengers are not required to remove their laptops from their bags.

In New Zealand, no security measures are in place for flights with fewer than 90 passengers.

In Singapore, security screening is required for passengers travelling through Changi Airport, but not for those travelling through Seletar Airport.

In Hong Kong, all persons and their baggage must be X-rayed and checked at security screening points.

In India, additional searching of hand luggage is likely before boarding.

In Pakistan, the Airports Security Force (ASF) is responsible for protecting the airports, facilities, and planes.

In Finland, non-passengers are subject to the same security scans as travellers.

Frequently asked questions