Airport Security: What Happens To Checked Luggage?

Airport security is a crucial aspect of air travel, employing various techniques and technologies to safeguard passengers, staff, aircraft, and property from potential threats. One key area of focus is luggage screening, which aims to detect prohibited items and ensure the safety of everyone on board. The process involves screening both carry-on and checked baggage for explosives, dangerous items, and other security risks.

In this article, we will delve into the world of airport security, exploring the measures in place to inspect checked luggage, the technologies utilized, and the role of organizations like the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in ensuring the safety of air travel. From sophisticated scanning systems to unpredictable security measures, we will uncover the intricate processes that work together to keep travelers safe as they take to the skies.

What not to wear through security

Wearing the right clothes and shoes can help you get through airport security quickly and painlessly. Here are some tips on what not to wear:

Avoid Bulky or Loose Clothing

Bulky jackets or loose, oversized clothing will require extra screening by TSA. Fumbling with jackets while trying to place your shoes, liquids, and laptop through the scanners will hold up the line. Instead, opt for a lightweight jacket or trench coat.

Don't Wear Complicated Shoes

Avoid shoes with lots of laces or straps that are difficult to take on and off. Go for slip-on shoes, sneakers, or flats instead. If you're wearing high heels, be aware that some contain nails that can set off body scanners, requiring you to remove them for screening.

Leave the Bling at Home

Metal jewelry, especially large pieces like bangles, will likely set off the body scanners and lead to additional screening. Simple jewelry made of precious metals like gold and silver is less likely to cause issues. If you must bring statement jewelry, pack it in your bag until you've cleared security.

Avoid Metal Hair Accessories

Metal hair accessories like bobby pins can also set off the scanners. Go for non-metal alternatives or skip the hair accessories altogether.

Lose the Belt

Belts are just one more thing to unfasten and refasten at security. If your outfit includes a belt, consider storing it in your carry-on or choosing a different outfit altogether.

Ditch the Hat

Hats are one more item to keep track of during screening. If possible, skip the hat, or be prepared to go through the scanner without it. Religious head coverings are exempt from this recommendation and will not need to be removed, but you may still be required to undergo secondary screening.

Steer Clear of Inappropriate Clothing

Clothing with slogans or images that could be perceived as promoting violence, threatening language, or aggressive confrontation can get you into trouble at the airport. This includes belt buckles, purses, heels, and jewelry that resemble guns, knives, or other weapons. Even decorative brass knuckles are a no-go.

Preparing your carry-on luggage

Wear Appropriate Clothing

Minimize the amount of metal you wear. This includes clothing and shoes without metallic embellishments, belts with non-metal buckles, and tucking large metal jewelry pieces into your bag. If you have body piercings, consider removing them beforehand to avoid a pat-down screening. Additionally, wear socks as you will need to remove your shoes, and always be prepared for a pat-down screening.

Organize Your Belongings

Keep your bag organized to facilitate a smooth screening process. Place all electronic devices larger than a cell phone, such as laptops and tablets, into a separate bin for X-ray screening. Food items like fruit, health bars, and sandwiches can usually remain in your bag, but follow instructions from TSA officers. Remember the 3-1-1 liquids rule for items like liquids, gels, and aerosols, and separate these from your other belongings.

Prepare Special Items

If you have prescription liquid medications, medically necessary water or juice, or frozen liquids/gels for cooling medical items, keep them separate from other liquids and inform security screeners about these items. Densely packed powders may need extra screening, so consider placing them in checked baggage. If you're carrying undeveloped film, ask for a manual inspection as X-rays will damage it.

Know the Restrictions

Be aware of prohibited items and special instructions for checked baggage. For example, aerosol insecticides are not allowed in carry-ons but are permitted in checked bags if not labeled as hazardous material. Always check with your airline for size and weight restrictions, and remember that how you pack your bag can impact the screening process.

Stay Informed

Stay up to date with the latest security measures and procedures, as they may change over time. Not all airports have the same security protocols, and some may have specific requirements or restrictions. Always follow the instructions provided by TSA officers and remain attentive during the screening process.

Preparing your checked luggage

• Wear comfortable clothing: Opt for clothing and shoes without metallic embellishment. Be prepared to remove your belt if it has a metal buckle. Take off large metal jewellery and place it in your carry-on bag. Also, remember to empty your pockets, including coins, keys, and other small items, into your carry-on bag or plastic bins provided at the security checkpoint.
• Wear socks and choose appropriate shoes: You will need to remove your shoes at the security checkpoint for screening. Wearing socks is recommended for hygiene purposes, as thousands of people pass through metal detectors daily. Take your time when removing and putting on your shoes to avoid leaving belongings behind.
• Follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule: All liquid and gel items must be in containers of 100ml (3.4 ounces) or less. Place these containers into a single, one-quart, clear, zip-closure plastic bag. This includes items such as water, juice, liquid medications, nutrition drinks, frozen liquids, and gel-like food items. Keep in mind that natural powders may require extra screening, so consider placing them in your checked luggage.
• Separate medical and disability-related items: You can bring prescription liquid medications, medically necessary water, juice, and other liquid nutrition, as well as frozen liquids or gels for cooling medical items. Prosthetics and medical equipment are also permitted. Inform the security screeners about these items, and request a visual inspection if X-rays may be harmful. Do not place prescription medications in your checked baggage.
• Prepare electronic devices: Remove laptops from their cases unless they are in TSA-approved cases or you have TSA PreCheck. If you are carrying a camera with undeveloped film, ask the security officer to inspect it manually, as X-ray screening can damage the film.
• Know what to do with your coat and other items: You will need to remove your coat or jacket and place it in a plastic bin for X-ray screening. Place your shoes, carry-on items, and metal items in the bins as well. Travellers over the age of 75 may keep their shoes and light jackets on.
• Be mindful of head coverings: You can keep your head covered during the screening process. However, if your head covering is too concealing, you may be asked to undergo a pat-down screening, which may involve removing your head covering. You can request this screening to be conducted in a private area away from public view.
• Be prepared to show identification: Have your identification, such as a driver's license or passport, and your boarding pass readily available at all times.
• Plan ahead for pets: If you are travelling with a pet, you will need to take them out of their carrier and carry them through the metal detector. Place the carrier on the X-ray machine for screening.
• Remember duty-free restrictions: Liquids purchased at duty-free shops, such as alcohol, must adhere to the same liquid restrictions as mentioned above. Place these items in your checked baggage if they exceed the allowed limit.
• Be mindful of prohibited items: Do not pack prohibited items in your checked luggage. Common prohibited items include scissors, ammunition, fireworks, explosives, controlled drugs, and power banks.
• Secure your luggage: Consider using luggage locks approved by the TSA to secure your checked luggage. These locks can be opened by TSA officers for inspection if needed.
• Allow for additional screening: TSA may inspect your checked baggage during the screening process. If your bag is physically inspected, you will find a notice of baggage inspection inside your bag after screening.

The screening process

Carry-on Baggage Screening:

• Electronic devices: Remove laptops, tablets, e-readers, and handheld game consoles from your carry-on bag and place them in a separate bin for X-ray screening.
• Food: Most food items, such as fruits, health bars, and sandwiches, can remain in your carry-on. However, special instructions apply to liquids, gels, baby food, breast milk, and medically necessary items.
• Packing: Organize your bag to facilitate the screening process. Check for prohibited items and follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule.
• Additional screening: TSA officers may instruct you to remove other items, such as foods, powders, and clutter that obstructs clear images on the X-ray machine.
• Prohibited items: Sharp objects, weapons, pepper spray, lithium batteries, and liquids over 100ml are prohibited.

Checked Baggage Screening:

• Screening process: After checking in, your checked baggage will be provided to TSA for security screening. The majority of checked baggage is screened without the need for a physical bag search.
• Inspection notices: If your checked baggage is physically inspected, TSA will place a notice inside your bag to inform you of the inspection.
• Claims: If your property is lost or damaged during screening, you may file a claim with TSA.
• Locks: Use TSA-approved locks to avoid having them cut off during inspection. TSA has master keys that can open certain branded locks.
• Monitoring: Airports employ various methods, such as CCTV, to monitor checked baggage facilities.

Passenger Screening:

• Metal detectors and scanners: Passengers are screened using metal detectors and/or millimeter wave scanners to detect weapons and other prohibited items.
• Advanced imaging technology: TSA uses advanced imaging technology, such as millimeter wave scanners, to screen passengers for metallic and non-metallic threats without physical contact.
• Pat-down procedures: In certain cases, passengers may be subjected to a pat-down procedure, including sensitive areas, to ensure no prohibited items are concealed.
• Identification: Be prepared to show identification documents, such as a driver's license or passport, and your boarding pass at any time during the screening process.

Additional Considerations:

• Liquids: All liquids and gels must be in containers of 100ml or less and fit into a single one-quart plastic bag.
• Medications: Prescription liquid medications and medically necessary items are allowed but must be screened separately.
• Electronics: Remove laptops and similar electronic devices from their cases for screening.
• Clothing: Wear minimal metal, and be prepared to remove belts, shoes, jackets, and large jewelry pieces.
• Time allocation: Allow sufficient time for the screening process, especially if you require additional time to remove and replace shoes and clothing.

Remember that security measures and procedures may vary and evolve over time, so staying informed about the latest guidelines is essential for a smooth airport experience.

What to expect at your departure gate

Once you've checked in and gone through the security screening, it's time to find your departure gate. Here's what to expect at your departure gate:

• Boarding Gate Information: Departure gates are typically identified by a combination of a letter and a number, such as A12. This information will be printed on your boarding pass. If you checked in online, the boarding gate may not be reflected on your pass, so you'll need to refer to the informational monitors at the airport. It's important to note that boarding gates can sometimes change, so keep an eye on the informational boards to stay updated.
• Arriving at the Departure Gate: It's recommended to arrive at your departure gate with ample time to spare. Boarding may start earlier than you anticipate. The departure gate area usually has seating, boarding counters, and charging stations for your convenience.
• Boarding Process: The boarding process typically begins with scanning your boarding pass and checking your ID. You may be directed to a chute that leads directly to the aircraft or escorted to a bus that will take you to a remote parking bay. Keep your boarding pass handy throughout the process.
• Onboard the Aircraft: Once you reach the aircraft, a member of the cabin crew will greet you, check your boarding pass, and direct you to your allocated seat. You'll be asked to place your belongings in the overhead bins or under the seat in front of you. Settle into your seat, fasten your seatbelt, and relax until takeoff.
• Final Instructions: The crew will provide instructions, and after the seatbelt sign is turned off, you'll be invited to disembark. Ensure you collect all your personal belongings and head towards the exit.
• Baggage Claim: After disembarking, you'll be directed to the terminal building, either on foot or by bus. Follow the signs to the luggage carousels to collect any checked-in luggage. Once you have your bags, proceed through the exit into the main terminal.
• Additional Considerations: Keep your ID and boarding pass readily available at all times, from the departure gate to boarding the aircraft. Verify that the flight number on the screen above the boarding gate matches the one on your boarding pass. Don't hesitate to ask the staff for assistance if you have any questions or concerns.

Frequently asked questions