Lois Larson
Airports have a variety of security measures in place to ensure the safety of passengers, staff, and cargo. Security checks at airports are designed to prevent prohibited items and threats to transportation security from entering the airport and aircraft. These checks include screening passengers, their belongings, and cargo. Passengers are screened using metal detectors, full-body scanners, and X-ray systems, while their carry-on baggage and personal belongings are also examined through X-ray screening and physical searches. Passengers may be asked to remove personal electronic devices like laptops and tablets from their carry-on luggage for separate screening. Additionally, passengers' checked baggage handed over to airlines is screened using methods such as computed tomography (CT) systems, explosives detection systems (EDS), and explosives trace detection (ETD). Airports employ different technologies, such as 3D X-ray and liquid and bottle scanners, to enhance security. It is recommended that passengers arrive at the airport early, allowing ample time for check-in and security procedures. Planning ahead, packing properly, and being aware of prohibited items can help facilitate a smoother travel experience.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Screening methods | Computed Tomography (CT) system, explosives detection system (EDS), X-ray system, explosives trace detection (ETD), physical search, 3D X-ray technology, liquid and bottle scanners, shoe scanners, walk-through metal detector, hand-held metal detector, full-body scanner, partial or full pat-down |
| Items screened | Passengers' checked baggage, carry-on baggage, personal belongings, cargo and packages |
| Typical throughput | Liquids, aerosols, gels, clothes, shoes, accessories, electronics, toiletries, food, souvenirs, jewellery, cell phones, laptops, tablets, eReaders, medication, literature, etc. |
| Allowable items | Sharp objects (knives, box cutters, scissors), firearms, ammunition, sporting equipment, alcohol, self-defence sprays, martial arts weapons, tools, lighters, ice skates and rollerblades, disposable razors, undeveloped camera film, etc. |
| Prohibited items | Loose lithium batteries, e-cigarettes and vaping devices, realistic replicas of explosives, safety matches, flares, chlorine, liquid bleach, firearms, ammunition, sporting equipment (baseball bats, golf clubs, ski poles), LAGs over a certain amount, fireworks, hoverboards, gel candles, etc. |
| Other | Passengers may be asked to power up their electronic devices. Powerless devices are not permitted onboard. |
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What You'll Learn
Liquids, electronics, and powders
Liquids
Liquids, aerosols, and gels (LAGs) are typically screened at airport security. Each airport may use different methods for screening liquids, such as computed tomography (CT) systems, X-ray, or specific liquid and bottle scanners. There are often restrictions on the amount of liquid allowed, and these restrictions vary by airport and airline, so it's important to check the relevant policies before packing liquids in your carry-on luggage.
Electronics
Electronic devices are another area of focus during security screening. You will typically be asked to remove personal electronic devices larger than a cell phone, such as laptops, tablets, e-readers, and handheld game consoles, from your carry-on bag. These devices should be placed in a separate bin for X-ray screening, with nothing placed on or under them. Additionally, officers may request that you power up your electronic devices, including cell phones, to ensure they are functional. Devices that cannot be powered on may not be permitted onboard.
Powders
When it comes to powders, it is recommended to place powder-like substances over a certain amount (for example, 12 oz. / 350 mL) in your checked baggage. Powders in carry-on baggage may require secondary screening, and those that cannot be resolved by security officials will be prohibited from the aircraft cabin. This is an important consideration, especially when traveling with items like baby formula, cosmetics, or protein powders. Again, checking the specific guidelines of your airline and airport is essential to ensure you comply with the regulations.
It's important to note that security measures and screening procedures may vary across airports and countries. These procedures are subject to change over time as security threats evolve and new technologies emerge. Therefore, staying informed about the latest guidelines and restrictions is crucial for a smooth travel experience.
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Prohibited items
When packing for a flight, it's important to be aware of prohibited items to ensure a smooth journey through security and avoid any penalties. Here is a detailed list of prohibited items that are not permitted through airport security checkpoints:
Electronics
Electronic devices larger than a cell phone, such as laptops, tablets, e-readers, and handheld game consoles, are subject to additional screening. Powerless devices will not be permitted onboard, so ensure your devices are charged before reaching the airport. Some airports are also implementing liquid and bottle scanners, which may affect devices with liquid components.
Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels (LAGs)
LAGs are typically allowed in carry-on baggage, but there are restrictions on quantities. Any liquids exceeding 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters must be packed in checked baggage. These restrictions also apply to aerosol and gel-like substances. Powders may require secondary screening and are prohibited from the aircraft cabin if they cannot be resolved by security.
Dangerous Goods
Items that pose a safety risk, such as loose lithium batteries, e-cigarettes, vaping devices, realistic replicas of explosives, safety matches, flares, chlorine, and liquid bleach, are prohibited. This also includes sharp objects like knives, box cutters, and scissors, as well as firearms, ammunition, and explosives.
Sporting Equipment
Sporting equipment is generally not permitted in carry-on baggage. This includes items like baseball bats, golf clubs, and ski poles. However, certain items, such as ice skates and rollerblades, are allowed. It's important to check with your airline for specific restrictions as they may vary.
Other prohibited items include fireworks, hoverboards, and gel candles. Additionally, any item that triggers an alarm during screening, appears tampered with, or raises security concerns may be prohibited, even if it is generally permitted. This is at the discretion of the TSA officer.
It's always advisable to review the guidelines provided by your specific airline and the airport to ensure you are aware of any additional prohibited items and to plan accordingly.
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Screening methods
Passengers entering secure areas of the airport may be screened using walk-through metal detectors, hand-held metal detectors, full-body scanners, or partial or full pat-downs. Explosive trace detection methods may also be used on passengers. Passengers may also be asked to power up their electronic devices, including cell phones, with powerless devices not permitted onboard.
Passengers' carry-on baggage and personal belongings are typically screened using X-ray systems or physical searches. Passengers will be asked to remove personal electronic devices larger than a cell phone, such as laptops, tablets, and handheld game consoles, from their carry-on bags for separate screening. Some airports are also deploying liquid and bottle scanners and/or shoe scanners.
Checked baggage handed over to airlines may be screened using computed tomography (CT) systems, explosives detection systems (EDS), X-ray systems, explosives trace detection (ETD), or physical searches.
In addition to the screening of passengers and their belongings, airports also monitor checked baggage facilities through methods such as CCTV.
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Checked baggage
Checking in at the airport can be a stressful experience, but with a little preparation, you can ensure a smooth process for your checked baggage. Firstly, it is important to be aware of the weight and size restrictions for checked baggage. Most airlines have a maximum weight limit of 40-50 pounds per checked bag, and common size restrictions include a maximum total of 62 linear inches, with a standard checked bag size of 27" x 21" x 14". It is always best to check your airline's policies before arriving at the airport.
When packing your checked baggage, it is important to be mindful of prohibited items. These include loose lithium batteries, e-cigarettes, vaping devices, safety matches, flares, chlorine, and liquid bleach. Any powder-like substances over 12 oz/350ml should also be placed in your checked baggage, as these may require secondary screening if packed in carry-on luggage. Items such as sharp objects (knives, box cutters, scissors), firearms, ammunition, sporting equipment, alcohol, and self-defence sprays are permitted in checked baggage but not in carry-on luggage.
Some airports are now experimenting with advanced technology to enhance security screening. This includes 3D X-ray technology, liquid and bottle scanners, and shoe scanners. It is recommended to prepare for additional screening of your checked baggage, especially when flying into the U.S. from certain departure airports.
To ensure a smooth check-in process, it is advisable to check in online or via your airline's app 24 hours in advance, if possible. This will save you time at the airport, and you can also pay for your checked baggage beforehand. If you require special assistance, contact your airline or airport at least 48 hours in advance to request services such as wheelchair support.
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Special assistance
Passengers with hearing, visual, psychological, or physical disabilities can receive assistance from airport employees throughout the airport, including during check-in, boarding, and deboarding. This may include wheelchair assistance for individuals with mobility impairments or guide assistance for individuals who are blind. Some airlines also offer special assistance to the elderly.
When requesting special assistance, passengers may be asked to provide information about their medical condition and any specific needs they may have. For example, passengers who require wheelchair assistance may need to bring a battery-powered wheelchair and arrive at the airport earlier than usual. It is important for passengers to self-identify as individuals with disabilities who require assistance when they arrive at the airport, even if they have already noted this in their reservation.
In addition to mobility assistance, special assistance can also include early boarding at the gate, assistance with seat selection, and adjustments to meals on board to accommodate dietary restrictions. Some airlines also allow service animals, which can be arranged with the help of special assistance coordinators. It is important to note that not all passengers may be eligible for special assistance, and in some cases, the airline may require the passenger to be accompanied by another person.
Overall, special assistance at the airport aims to provide a comfortable and stress-free journey for passengers with disabilities or special needs. By requesting this service in advance and providing the necessary information, passengers can ensure that they receive the support they need throughout their travel experience.
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Frequently asked questions
Airports have numerous screening checkpoints for passengers, cabin baggage, hold baggage, cargo, and non-passengers. These checkpoints use methods such as computed tomography (CT) systems, X-ray systems, walk-through metal detectors, hand-held metal detectors, full-body scanners, and more to ensure the safety of passengers and staff.
Typical items that are screened include liquids, aerosols, gels, clothes, shoes, accessories, electronics, toiletries, food, and souvenirs. Passengers may also bring sharp objects like scissors, firearms, ammunition, sporting equipment, alcohol, and self-defence sprays, which are subject to specific regulations.
Planning ahead and packing properly can ease your travel experience. It is recommended to check your flight status and arrive early at the airport, allowing enough time for the screening process. You can also take advantage of online check-in options, where available, to reduce wait times. Additionally, passengers can familiarise themselves with the list of prohibited items and ensure they are not carrying any such items to streamline their security experience.
