Screening At Airports: Ensuring Safe Skies For Passengers

Airport security screening is a crucial aspect of ensuring the safety of passengers, staff, and aircraft. The screening process involves multiple checkpoints and methods to detect prohibited items, explosives, and other threats. Passengers are typically screened through metal detectors, full-body scanners, and X-ray machines, which are used to scan their carry-on baggage and personal belongings. In recent years, there has been a shift towards implementing more advanced technology, such as computed tomography (CT) scanners, risk-based screening, intelligent video analytics, and self-service screening options. Additionally, airport employees, airline staff, and contracted workers accessing restricted areas are also subject to screening, which may include background checks, criminal records checks, and proof of identity. These comprehensive security measures are designed to protect against potential threats and enhance the overall security of the aviation industry.

Passenger screening methods

Passenger screening at airports is a crucial aspect of ensuring the safety and security of travellers, staff, and aircraft. The screening methods employed aim to prevent prohibited items, weapons, and other threats from entering secure areas of the airport and aircraft. Here is an overview of the various passenger screening methods implemented at airports:

Secure Flight Programs:

Secure Flight is a risk-based passenger prescreening program that enhances security by categorising individuals into low- and high-risk categories before they arrive at the airport. This is achieved by matching passenger names against trusted traveller lists and watchlists, while also maintaining privacy by collecting only essential personal information.

Standard Screening Procedures:

Standard screening procedures typically involve passengers removing all items, including clothing, accessories, electronics, and carry-on baggage, for inspection. This may include X-ray screening, metal detectors, and/or millimeter wave scanners to detect prohibited items and potential weapons.

Advanced Imaging Technology:

Advanced imaging technology, such as backscatter X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scanners, and walk-through body scanning, is used to detect hidden weapons, explosives, and other prohibited items. These systems utilise technologies like Thz radiation and Compton scattering to produce high-resolution images that can identify threats.

Pat-Down Procedures:

Pat-down procedures are conducted as an alternative or supplement to advanced imaging technology. Officers perform inspections of the head, neck, arms, torso, legs, and feet, including sensitive areas and adjustments to clothing. This manual method helps identify prohibited items or threats that may be concealed on an individual.

Self-Service Screening:

To enhance efficiency and the passenger experience, self-service screening options are being piloted at select airports. These systems aim to reduce the reliance on Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) by allowing PreCheck® passengers to complete the screening process with minimal assistance.

Explosives and Trace Detection:

Explosive detection methods are crucial in airport security. This includes the use of X-ray machines, explosives trace detection (ETD) equipment, and "puffer machines" to identify any traces of explosives that may pose a threat. Police dog services are also utilised for explosive and drug detection.

Biometric Access Control:

Some airports have implemented dual biometric access control systems, such as the Restricted Area Identity Card (RAIC) program, to regulate access to secure areas. Airport employees, staff, and workers are subject to security checks, criminal record checks, and proof of identity to obtain access to restricted areas.

These passenger screening methods are continually evolving, incorporating new technologies and procedures to enhance safety, efficiency, and the overall airport experience for travellers and staff alike.

Screening of airport employees

Airport employees who require access to secure areas must undergo a comprehensive background investigation as part of a standard screening process. This typically includes a criminal records check and verification of identity. Additionally, employees are required to obtain an airside pass or an access badge, which grants them entry to restricted areas. The access badge is issued after a thorough background investigation, and employees are expected to display their badges when entering secure locations.

To address the potential insider threat posed by employees, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States has implemented random employee screening at select airports. This includes airports like Seattle Tacoma International Airport (SEA), which has been conducting employee screening for nearly 100% of its staff. The TSA's directive focuses on airports taking ownership of employee screening policies, procedures, and technology solutions, with the goal of expanding to 100% screening in the future.

Some of the challenges associated with employee screening include developing a prohibited items list that is applicable to various staff roles and training staff on what they can and cannot bring through checkpoints. Airports have employed different strategies to address these challenges, such as using operational data to inform staffing decisions and deploying staff to conduct security checks during peak times.

Furthermore, airports have adopted enhanced employee screening methods, including increased random physical screening and the use of portable equipment to screen employees throughout the airport. Behavior detection training for law enforcement officials and security personnel is also being implemented to enable them to better identify potential security risks.

Overall, the screening of airport employees is a critical component of airport security, and efforts are continuously being made to improve and expand these procedures to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

Screening technology

X-ray Machines: X-ray technology is commonly used to screen carry-on and checked baggage. These machines can penetrate the surface of objects, allowing operators to identify potential threats or prohibited items. X-ray machines are also used to scan cargo and packages tendered for air transport.

Metal Detectors: Walk-through metal detectors and handheld metal detectors are employed to screen passengers for any metallic objects or weapons. These detectors can identify items such as knives, firearms, or other metal tools that may pose a security risk.

Explosives Trace Detection (ETD): ETD equipment is crucial in detecting traces of explosives. This technology is used for both passenger screening and baggage screening to ensure that no explosive materials are brought on board aircraft.

Full-Body Scanners: Full-body scanners, also known as advanced imaging technology, provide a detailed scan of an individual's body to detect any concealed prohibited items or threats. These scanners can identify items that may not be visible during a physical search or metal detector screening.

Pat-Down Procedures: While not solely a technology, pat-down procedures are often used in conjunction with other screening methods. Trained officers perform physical inspections of passengers' clothing, including sensitive areas, to ensure no prohibited items are being concealed.

Computed Tomography (CT) Scanners: CT scanners are being introduced as an upgrade to traditional X-ray machines. These scanners provide a more comprehensive and detailed view of baggage contents, enhancing the accuracy of threat detection.

Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI is being leveraged in various ways at airports. For example, AI-powered translation services are being used at information stations. Additionally, AI is being explored for use with biometric deployment and intelligent video analytics to improve security and efficiency.

Self-Service Screening: There is a growing trend towards self-service screening options at airports. The Science and Technology Directorate's Screening at Speed Program aims to introduce self-service screening pods that can accommodate multiple travellers simultaneously, reducing the reliance on Transportation Security Officers (TSOs).

As technology advances, we can expect to see further innovations in airport screening, such as 3D X-ray technology, liquid and bottle scanners, shoe scanners, and more, all aimed at enhancing security and streamlining the passenger experience.

Prohibited items

To ensure the safety of passengers, airports have implemented various security measures, including screening procedures to detect prohibited items. These items are typically confiscated by authorities to prevent any potential threats to transportation security. Here is a detailed list of prohibited items that are not permitted on flights:

Weapons and Dangerous Items

• Firearms: Firearms are strictly prohibited in carry-on bags. If you need to travel with firearms, they must be declared to an agent during check-in and placed in checked bags.
• Ammunition: Small arms ammunition for sporting purposes is allowed in checked bags but must be securely packed in the original manufacturer's packaging or special packaging designed for ammunition. The weight limit for ammunition is typically around 5 kg or 11 lbs.
• Explosives and flammable substances: Items that contain explosives or flammable substances are not allowed on flights. This includes items like fireworks, flares, and gun powder.
• Sharp objects: Any sharp objects that could be used as weapons are prohibited in carry-on bags. This includes items such as knives, scissors, razors, and tools.

Substances and Hazardous Materials

• Alcoholic beverages: Alcoholic drinks with a volume of over 70% or 140 proof are prohibited. Drinks with a lower alcohol content are typically allowed but may be subject to quantity restrictions.
• Lithium-ion batteries: Devices powered by lithium-ion batteries are not permitted in checked bags. However, you can carry them in your carry-on luggage but must not be used during the flight.
• Marijuana: Despite some states having laws that allow recreational or medical marijuana, the TSA considers it illegal under federal law. Carrying marijuana on flights is done at the passenger's own risk, and they may be referred to law enforcement authorities.

Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and specific restrictions may vary depending on the country, airline, and local regulations. Always check with your airline and review the TSA guidelines before packing to ensure you are compliant with the latest regulations.

Screening challenges

Health and Sanitation

Plastic security screening trays, frequently used in security checks, have been identified as potential vectors for the spread of respiratory viruses. A study at Helsinki-Vantaa airport during the 2015-2016 flu season emphasized the need for improved sanitation practices in these areas. The use of plastic utensils and glasses in airport food outlets also highlights the awareness of hygiene challenges in airport screening areas.

Privacy and Legal Issues

The use of imaging technologies, such as backscatter X-rays and advanced imaging technology, has raised concerns about privacy and legal search and seizure accusations. These technologies reveal much more about a person than other screening methods, potentially exposing non-threat but illegal items. This has led to challenges based on the Fourth Amendment regarding illegal or improperly conducted searches. Additionally, there is a fine line between searching for threat objects and broadening the scope to include non-threat but suspicious or illegal items.

Security Threats

Incidents involving travelers carrying weapons or items that could be used as weapons onboard aircraft pose significant challenges. This includes the detection of explosives and other dangerous items in carry-on baggage. The TSA relies on the public to report unattended bags, suspicious activities, and individuals with threatening items. The screening procedures aim to prevent prohibited items and other security threats from entering sterile areas of the airport.

Efficiency and Wait Times

Long wait times at security checkpoints can be frustrating for passengers and impact the efficiency of airport operations. The implementation of new technologies, such as advanced imaging technology, pat-down procedures, and risk-based passenger pre-screening programs, can help enhance security but may also contribute to longer wait times if not properly managed.

Passenger Cooperation

Passenger cooperation is essential for effective screening. For example, individuals who are unwilling or unable to remove bulky clothing or light outer garments may require additional screening. Clear communication and guidance from security officers are crucial to ensuring a smooth and efficient process.

Frequently asked questions