Airport Security

It's a fact of life that when you fly anywhere these days, whether it is abroad or within the UK then you will have to pass through security controls before you can board an aircraft. Although it may seem inconvenient time and consuming, but after the 9/11 terrorist attacks in 2001, few would argue that these controls are not necessary.

How it Works

Every airport has its own security controls, run not by the airlines, but by the Airport Operator. For example, in the UK, vetted staff from approved Security Companies must work within very strict guidelines, and are regulated (and frequently checked) by the government's Department for Transport. In the US, passenger and baggage screening is provided by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), part of the Department of Homeland Security.

Security searches must be carried out on all passengers and baggage before they are allowed to board their aircraft. The security process starts when you check in, where you may be asked certain questions. These are usually straightforward enquiries about who packed your bags, whether you left them unattended at any time, and whether you are aware of their contents. When you have checked in, you luggage is sent to be screened through an X ray examination before finding its way to the aircraft.

Before you can enter the departure lounge or go airside as it is known, you must pass through the passenger security controls. You should always allow yourself plenty of time for this process, as at peak times the queues can get very long. You will need to produce your boarding card and passport to the screening staff, and you will be required to remove your coat or jacket (and in some cases your footwear), and place them in a tray, along with your mobile phone, keys, coins, watch and any other metal object that may set the metal detector off. Finally your hand luggage should be placed in a tray to be scanned. If you have a laptop, you may be asked to remove it from its bag before placing it in the tray.

You will then be required to walk-through a scanner that will detect any metal objects. If the machine bleeps as you walk through, a security officer will run a 'wand' over you to try to locate the source of the metal (e.g. a belt buckle or boot zip). If practicable, you may be asked to remove the offending item and walk through the scanner again, or you may be given a rub down search by a (same sex) security officer. Random rub down searches are often carried out, even if the machine didn't bleep.

The UK is considering new methods of screening passengers to further improve airport security, such as advanced X-ray machines that provide a 360-degree view of a person, as well as "see" under clothes, right down to the skin and bones.

The majority of security officers are conscientious and helpful and are only doing their job. So if you feel uncomfortable or have any misgivings about any aspect of the search just let them know. For example, if you have a disability or medical condition, or experience pain when raising your arms for a search, just let the staff know, and they will do everything they can to accommodate your needs.

Baggage Restrictions

The maximum size for items of hand luggage is 56cm x 45cm x 25cm per bag. If you are carrying a laptop computer then this counts as your one item.

From 7 January 2008, the one item restriction that was brought in on 6 November 2006, no longer applies at certain airports. However, airlines apply their own operational policies governing the number of items of hand baggage which may be taken in to the aircraft cabin, and passengers are strongly advised to check both airport and airline policies before travelling.

Passengers are not permitted to take any liquids over 100 ml past security, although liquids in larger containers purchased in the secure area are allowed on flights. Liquids for this purpose include items such as creams, lotions, perfumes, toothpaste, gels, shaving foam and deodorants. Any liquids under 100 ml must be placed in a single, transparent, re-sealable plastic bag (about the size of a small freezer bag), which itself must not exceed 1 litre in capacity (approximately 20cm x 20cm). This plastic bag must be able to fit comfortably in hand luggage once the checks are complete.

Exceptions to this strict rule are baby food or essential medicines that are needed for the journey. If you are travelling with any medication or medical supplies you will need a letter from your doctor explaining what it is and why you need it. If you are carrying syringes or hypodermic needles in your hand luggage, you are likely to be refused permission to board the aircraft without a letter from your doctor or hospital. You should also tell the airline in advance if you will be carrying syringes either in your hand luggage or checked-in bags.