Airport Screening: Effective Or Security Theater?

Airport security screening has become increasingly important since the September 11 attacks, the Air India bombing in 1985, and other terrorist attacks. Screening procedures are designed to prevent prohibited items and security threats from entering airports and aircraft, and to protect passengers, staff, and property. Screening methods vary across countries and airports, but they generally involve metal detectors, X-ray machines, explosive trace detection, random physical searches, and body-scanning units. These procedures aim to balance safety and efficiency, but do they effectively achieve their goal of keeping people safe while travelling?

Effectiveness of different screening equipment

The effectiveness of airport screening is a critical issue, with security a paramount concern for airports worldwide. Screening equipment must be continually updated to counter evolving threats.

X-ray scanners are fundamental to security, used primarily for screening baggage. They produce detailed images of luggage contents, allowing staff to identify prohibited items like weapons, explosives, and contraband. Single-view scanners provide a single image, while multi-view scanners offer multiple angles, increasing the detection of hidden threats.

Metal detectors are another core technology, with two main types: walk-through metal detectors (WTMD) and handheld metal detectors. WTMDs are used at security checkpoints, creating a magnetic field that detects metal objects. Handheld detectors are used for more precise screening when an anomaly is detected.

Biometric systems are increasingly popular due to their ability to enhance security and expedite the screening process. They use biological characteristics like fingerprints, facial recognition, and iris scans to verify identities, improving accuracy and reducing manual checks.

Explosives detection systems (EDS) are designed to identify traces of explosives on passengers, luggage, and cargo. Surveillance cameras are also crucial, providing constant monitoring with high-definition and facial recognition capabilities to identify suspicious activities and individuals. Access control systems, using keycards, biometrics, and PIN codes, help secure restricted areas.

Overall, the choice of equipment balances price and achievable passenger capacity, with staffing costs a significant factor. Security is a priority, and airports must adopt the latest innovations to maintain safety.

Safety measures for radiation-emitting equipment

One key safety measure is the use of non-ionizing radiation in metal detectors and millimetre wave machines. Non-ionizing radiation has enough energy to move atoms in a molecule or cause them to vibrate, but not enough to remove electrons from atoms. This type of radiation is used to scan travellers and their carry-on luggage for prohibited items, such as weapons and explosives. It is important to note that the risk of health effects from this type of radiation is considered very low. Additionally, individuals who are concerned about walking through x-ray or millimetre wave machines have the option to request a pat-down search instead.

Furthermore, radiation-emitting equipment, including x-ray systems, must meet federal, state, and local safety standards. The FDA's Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) ensures that all radiation-emitting screening equipment is built to use radiation safely and is correctly calibrated and maintained. This includes equipment used for carry-on and checked luggage screening, as well as full-body scanners. The FDA requirements limit passenger and worker exposure to radiation, and TSA professionals adhere to these specifications.

To ensure the accuracy and safety of radiation-emitting equipment, regular testing and maintenance are conducted. The equipment is tested at least once a year to ensure compliance with relevant safety standards. During the setup of the equipment, TSA professionals conduct tests and may bring in outside specialists for additional testing as needed. Proper maintenance of the equipment is also crucial to ensure it remains in good working order.

Overall, these safety measures for radiation-emitting equipment in airports help to protect the health and security of travellers and staff while enabling effective screening procedures to identify potential threats.

Screening procedures for carry-on baggage

Officers will check and search carry-on baggage using equipment designed to detect prohibited items, such as EDS, X-ray, and ETD machines. They are authorised to control access to restricted areas of the airport, and all individuals entering these areas, including staff, must be screened. It is recommended that travellers arrive at the airport early to allow enough time for screening procedures.

Travellers may be instructed by security officers to separate certain items from their carry-on bags, such as food, powders, and electronic devices. This is to ensure that these items can be screened effectively and do not clutter bags, which can obstruct clear images on X-ray machines. It is recommended that travellers keep their bags organised to ease the screening process.

Electronic devices larger than a cell phone, such as laptops, tablets, e-readers, and handheld game consoles, will be screened separately and must be placed into a bin with nothing placed on or under them for X-ray screening. This does not include items such as hair dryers, electric shavers, or electric toothbrushes. Bulky clothing may also require additional screening if it is very loose or does not conform to the contour of the person wearing it.

Locks used on checked baggage should be commercially available locks approved by Safe Skies Luggage Locks and Travel Sentry. These locks have universal "master" keys that can be used by TSA officers to inspect baggage without cutting the locks. However, the TSA has no position on the effectiveness of these locks as a security measure.

Screening procedures for personal electronic devices

Passengers travelling to the U.S. are advised to arrive at the airport early to allow sufficient time for screening. They are also encouraged to keep their carry-on bags organised and uncluttered to facilitate the screening process. In terms of specific procedures for personal electronic devices, travellers are required to remove devices larger than a cell phone from their carry-on bags and place them in separate bins for X-ray screening. This includes items such as laptops, tablets, e-readers, and handheld game consoles.

It is important to note that these enhanced screening procedures do not apply to TSA PreCheck members, who can utilise dedicated security lanes. Additionally, there are no changes to the items allowed in carry-on and checked baggage. Passengers are still permitted to bring powder-like substances, but those over 12 oz (350 mL) should be placed in checked bags.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has stated that these stricter measures are necessary to enhance security and stay ahead of evolving threats. By implementing these procedures, TSA officers can more effectively resolve alarms and address potential security risks.

Screening procedures for clothing

Firstly, passengers are typically required to remove light outer garments, such as windbreakers, vests, blazers, and light jackets. This is to facilitate the screening process and ensure that any prohibited items are not concealed underneath. Passengers who are unable or unwilling to remove such garments can inform the officer, but additional screening may be required.

Additionally, bulky clothing, such as oversized hoodies, large sweaters, cardigans, or ponchos, may also be subject to additional screening. This is because bulky clothing can be challenging to screen effectively and may conceal prohibited items. Again, passengers who are uncomfortable removing bulky clothing can inform the officer, but further screening procedures may apply.

During the screening process, passengers may be required to undergo a pat-down procedure. This involves a TSA officer of the same sex gently patting down the passenger's body, including sensitive areas such as the head, neck, arms, torso, legs, and feet. Passengers are advised of the procedure beforehand, and officers will explain the process as they conduct the pat-down. The purpose of the pat-down is to detect any prohibited items or threats to security that may be concealed under clothing.

Furthermore, advanced imaging technology (AIT) is also used at some airports as an alternative to metal detectors. This technology, known as millimeter-wave technology, safely screens passengers for metallic and non-metallic threats without physical contact. It can detect items such as weapons and explosives that may be hidden under clothing.

It is important to note that TSA procedures are subject to change and adaptation to meet evolving security threats. The TSA works closely with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to enhance aviation security and implement enhanced security measures at airports worldwide.

Frequently asked questions