What's going on at the airport gates? We explain the alarms and the security check process.
- Damian Brzeski
- Jul 30
- 20 min read
Does your airport gate always beep for no apparent reason? Or maybe your watch or hand cream is the culprit? Security checks can be stressful for even the most experienced travelers, especially when the alarm suddenly goes off.
In this article, I will explain step by step how the screening system works, what the gates and scanners actually detect, and how to avoid having your baggage confiscated.
Find out what has changed since the return of the 100 ml limit and why sometimes just a balm is enough to warrant an additional inspection.
Airport Security Check Without Secrets
For many travelers, airport security is the most stressful part of their trip. The uncertainty, rush, and complexity of regulations can overwhelm even experienced flyers.
The purpose of this article is to demystify the entire process so that everyone can go through it smoothly, calmly and with full awareness of their rights.
Knowledge is the key to peace of mind, and this guide will equip you with everything you need to get your journey off to a smooth start.
Here, I will discuss the procedures in force in Europe step by step, explain how airport technologies work, together we will dispel your doubts about packing hand luggage and compare European standards with those in other parts of the world.
Let's start with a key piece of information that applies to everyone travelling in Europe: from 1 September 2024, the 100ml liquid limit in hand luggage has been temporarily reintroduced at airports across the European Union.
Understanding this and other rules will help you avoid unnecessary stress and the confiscation of items.
Security Control in Europe Step by Step
The standard security check procedure at airports in the European Union is unified and aims to ensure maximum security while striving for smooth passenger service.
Getting through it without stress only requires knowing a few simple steps.
Step 1: Queue Preparation
Getting through security smoothly begins even before you approach the conveyor belt. While waiting in line, it's worth preparing for the upcoming activities.
At the first desk, a security officer will ask you to scan your boarding pass – it can be in paper form or displayed on your phone screen.
This is also the time to prepare a clear bag containing liquids and any larger electronics for removal from your carry-on luggage. Proactive action at this point significantly speeds up the entire process for you and other travelers.
Step 2: Placing items on trays
After scanning your boarding pass, proceed to the conveyor belt with plastic trays. Place the following items in them:
Outerwear and accessories: Jackets, coats, blazers, as well as trouser belts with large metal buckles, watches and chunky jewelry.
Electronics: All electronic devices larger than a standard smartphone. Laptops, tablets, and cameras must be removed from their bags and placed in a separate tray to allow for a clear image during the X-ray.
Liquids: A specially prepared, transparent and resealable bag with a capacity of up to 1 liter, containing liquid containers, each with a maximum volume of 100 ml.
Step 3: Passing through the turnstile or scanner
Once you've placed all the required items on your trays, you'll need to wait for a signal from a security officer inviting you to proceed through the body search system. This could be:
Walk-Through Metal Detector (WTMD): The standard device through which most passengers pass.
Body scanner: An increasingly common device in which you stand for a moment with your arms raised.
Even if the alarm does not sound, the passenger may be selected for additional, random screening. This may include a pat-down or an explosive trace defect (ETD) test.
This is a standard procedure to increase overall security, there is no reason to stress about it.
Step 4: Picking up your belongings and moving on
After passing through the gate or scanner, you can collect your belongings from the conveyor belt. It's worth calmly and carefully checking that all items have been removed from the litter boxes – especially the smallest and most valuable items, such as your phone, wallet, passport, or keys.
At this point, the passenger is already in the so-called sterile zone (air-side), from which they cannot return to the public part of the airport without passing through security checks again.
Improvement: Automated Border Control Gates (ABC)
It is worth noting that security checks are not the same as border (passport) checks, which are a separate stage for flights outside the Schengen area.
Many European airports, including those in Poland , have implemented an automated border control (ABC) gate system to streamline the process for EU citizens.
The procedure is simple and quick:
Go to the gate with the green arrow.
Place your passport or ID card on the reader with the indicated side facing up.
After opening the first door, go inside and stand in the designated spot.
Remove your glasses and hat, then look into the camera to scan your face.
After positive biometric verification and data verification in the systems, the exit doors will open.
The implementation of systems such as ABC gates or the planned large-scale biometric systems demonstrates the European Union's desire to harmonise procedures and increase their efficiency.
This is part of a broader philosophy of passenger traffic management, where smoothness and passenger comfort are balanced with rigorous safety requirements.
This technology-driven and standardised approach sets European airports apart from systems in other parts of the world, which have historically relied on more labour-intensive and manual screening processes.
Demystifying Scanners and Gateways
The technology used at airports raises many questions and myths. Understanding how individual devices work and what they detect allows you to approach security screening with confidence.
FAQ 1: What's that beeping on the gates? Will my gold set off the alarm?
The gates we pass through are walk-through metal detectors (WTMDs). They operate on the principle of electromagnetic induction.
The device generates a variable magnetic field, and any metal object brought into this field disrupts it, which is a signal to trigger an audible and/or visual alarm.
What is detected? The gates are most sensitive to ferromagnetic metals, meaning those containing iron (e.g., steel in belt buckles and springs), but they also detect other metals that conduct electricity well, such as copper and aluminum. The devices' sensitivity is precisely calibrated to detect potentially dangerous objects, such as weapons or even small blades, while ignoring objects with negligible metal mass, such as a single coin in a pocket.
Jewelry (gold, silver, surgical steel, titanium): Gold and silver, although metals, are not ferromagnetic. Therefore, small and delicate jewelry, such as a thin chain, small earrings, or a wedding ring, usually won't trigger the alarm . The problem arises with bulky jewelry, large watches, or bracelets, which, due to their weight and surface area, can disrupt the magnetic field—so they should be removed before inspection. The same applies to surgical steel: small earrings will pass through without issue, but a large, heavy bracelet can trigger the alarm. Titanium is virtually inert to detectors and shouldn't pose a problem.
Medical implants: Modern medical implants, such as titanium dental implants or joint replacements, are designed not to activate airport gates. In very rare cases, if the implant contains other metals, an alarm may sound. In such cases, you should calmly inform the officer that you have an implant. Bringing your medical records with you can help, but in practice, this is rarely necessary. People with pacemakers should exercise particular caution. Due to the risk of electromagnetic interference with the device, they should inform staff and request an alternative form of inspection, such as a manual inspection.
An alarm for no reason? The gate may sound an alarm even if you don't have any metal objects on you. This is a deliberate action of the systems, which are programmed to randomly select passengers for additional, more detailed checks. This is a standard part of security procedures.
FAQ 2: The Mysterious "Paper": What Does the Trace Data Check (ETD) Detect?
A random check using a small piece of paper is a test for trace amounts of substances (ETD, Explosive Trace Detection ).
How does it work? An officer wipes hands, clothing, luggage, or personal items (e.g., laptop, phone, belt) with a special material resembling paper or cotton swab. The sample is then placed in an analytical device—usually an ion mobility spectrometer—which can detect microscopic particles of specific chemical compounds within seconds.
What does it detect? This technology is extremely sensitive and searches for traces of:
Explosives such as trinitrotoluene (TNT), penthrite (PETN) or hexogen (RDX).
Drugs , e.g. cocaine, heroin or amphetamines.
Chemical precursors that can be used to produce explosives.
Who is subject to inspection? The inspection is used selectively – randomly, or in situations where a passenger's behavior or the results of another inspection (e.g., an X-ray image) raise officers' suspicions.
Causes of false positives: A positive test result does not mean that the passenger knowingly came into contact with illegal substances. Due to the extreme sensitivity of the devices, traces of substances with a similar chemical structure found in legal, everyday products can trigger an alarm. The most common causes are:
Glycerin (glycerol): A common ingredient in hand creams, lotions, and soaps. Its chemical structure is related to nitroglycerin, a component of dynamite, which can lead to false alarms.
Fertilizers: Some agricultural fertilizers contain nitrates, which are also a component of explosives. They can leave marks on your shoes or clothing after gardening.
Medications: Some medications, especially heart medications, may contain nitroglycerin compounds.
What happens after a positive result? A positive result is only a signal for further verification. It does not constitute a criminal charge. Standard procedure includes additional questions, a more thorough manual inspection of carry-on luggage, and possibly a personal search. The most important thing is to remain calm and cooperate with the staff.
FAQ 3: Body Scanners: What do security see and what are my rights?
Body scanners are another element raising concerns, mainly regarding privacy.
Technology used in the EU: At European Union airports, only scanners based on millimeter wave technology are used to screen passengers . The European Commission, concerned about the health and privacy of citizens, has banned the use of devices that use ionizing radiation (X-rays), which could create detailed images of the body.
What does the operator see? The millimeter wave system doesn't generate a "naked" image of the passenger! Instead, a neutral, general outline of a human figure (avatar) appears on the controller's monitor, automatically highlighting areas where potentially dangerous objects may be hidden under clothing. The image is anonymous, does not allow for personal identification, and, in accordance with EU regulations, cannot be copied, stored, or printed.
Passenger Rights in the EU: Any Member State that decides to use body scanners must adhere to strict EU passenger rights rules. Passengers have the right to:
Refuse Scanning: There must always be an alternative screening method available, which is usually a thorough manual check (pat-down).
For full disclosure: Staff must provide information about the technology used in the scanner.
Privacy: Image analysis must be performed in a separate room, by an inspector who does not see the person being scanned live. You can also request that an officer of your chosen gender perform the analysis.
The evolution of screening methods, from simple metal detectors to advanced chemical and biometric scanners, is a direct response to the changing threats in civil aviation.
However, the implementation of any new technology is not only a technical issue, but also a political and social one.
Decisions such as the EU banning X-ray scanners due to privacy concerns, or the recent reinstatement of the liquid limit due to software flaws in modern C3 scanners, show that technology is not being implemented in a vacuum.
It is a constant process of negotiation between the pursuit of absolute security and the protection of fundamental civil rights and the practicalities of day-to-day airport operations.
Understanding this complex ecosystem allows us to understand why procedures work the way they do, and that they are the result of a constant balancing of multiple, often conflicting, interests.
Carry-on Luggage - The Complete Packing Guide
Packing your carry-on luggage correctly is half the battle to a stress-free security checkpoint. Below is a detailed guide to the most problematic item categories.
Liquids, Aerosols and Gels (LAGs) – The Great Return of the 100 ml Limit
The most important recent change that all travellers to and from Europe must remember is the return to the old rules regarding liquids.
Current EU rule (from September 1, 2024): All liquids, aerosols, and gels (LAGs) in carry-on luggage must be carried in containers with a maximum volume of 100 ml each. All these containers must fit into one transparent, resealable zip-lock bag with a capacity of no more than 1 liter (typically 20x20 cm).
Why has the limit been reinstated? The European Commission's decision is not dictated by a new terrorist threat. It is a temporary measure, introduced due to technical issues with modern C3 baggage scanners. Their software proved unreliable when scanning liquid containers exceeding 330 ml. To prevent potential threats resulting from this technological gap, it was decided to return to proven and safe restrictions throughout the EU and in associated countries such as Switzerland and Norway.
What is classified as a liquid? The definition is very broad and includes not only beverages but also soups, jams, honey, syrups, perfumes, shower gels, toothpastes, creams, foundations, mascaras, deodorant sprays, and any other substances with a similar, not entirely solid consistency.
Exceptions to the 100ml limit: There are two main categories of products that are exempt from the restrictive limit:
Medications: Liquid medications required by passengers for the duration of their journey (e.g., insulin, asthma syrup, eye drops) may be carried in quantities exceeding 100 ml. However, these must be declared separately at security. A medical certificate (preferably in English) or prescription is not required but is recommended, as it can significantly speed up the check-in process.
Baby food: Milk, water, juice, and jarred food needed for travel are also not subject to the limit. Like medications, they must be presented separately for inspection. The officer has the right to ask the parent to open and taste them for verification purposes.
Duty-Free Purchases: Alcohol, perfume, and other liquids purchased at airport shops, once you've cleared security, can, of course, exceed 100ml. However, if your trip involves a layover at another airport (where you'll have to go through another security check), your purchases must be packaged by the seller in a special, factory-sealed STEB ( Security Tamper-Evident Bag ) with your proof of purchase visible inside. This bag must not be opened until you reach your final destination, otherwise its contents will be confiscated at the next security check.
Empty bottle or thermos: This is a popular and completely legal way to save on expensive water at the airport. You can easily carry an empty bottle, water bottle, or metal thermos through security. After passing security, you can refill them free of charge from public water fountains or restroom taps.
Electronics on the Go
Modern travel also means traveling with electronics. The regulations for transporting them are dictated primarily by safety concerns related to lithium-ion batteries.
Laptops, tablets, cameras: As mentioned, these must be removed from your luggage and placed in a separate tray during X-ray screening.
Power banks and spare lithium batteries: This is a critical category. Due to the risk of spontaneous combustion, power banks and all spare lithium batteries are strictly prohibited in checked baggage . They must be transported in carry-on baggage only . Capacity (power) limits, expressed in watt-hours (Wh), also apply:
Up to 100 Wh: Allowed without special airline approval. Most phone and laptop power banks fall within this limit.
More than 100 Wh but not more than 160 Wh: Usually permitted, but in limited quantities (e.g., a maximum of two per passenger) and require prior approval from the carrier.
Above 160 Wh: Absolutely prohibited for passenger transport. All spare batteries and power banks must be individually protected against short circuits, for example, by placing them in their original packaging, a separate plastic bag, or by covering the contacts with insulating tape.
Drones: They are treated like other advanced electronic devices, with the key emphasis on batteries.
Carriage Rules: The drone body can be transported in carry-on or checked baggage, but its lithium batteries—like power banks— must be carried exclusively in carry-on baggage and properly secured. Battery power limits (up to 100 Wh and 100-160 Wh) are the same as for power banks.
Check the airline's regulations: This is crucial, as rules can vary dramatically. While most carriers, like LOT and Lufthansa, have clearly defined rules regarding drone transport, some, like
Wizz Air has introduced a complete ban on the carriage of drones on board, both in hand and checked baggage.
Check the laws in your destination country: Successfully transporting a drone is one thing, but the legality of using it at your destination is another. Many countries (e.g., Morocco, Egypt, Cuba) have very restrictive regulations or completely ban the use of drones by tourists. Your equipment may be confiscated at the airport upon arrival.
Eating on a Plane: A Gourmet's Guide
Bringing your own provisions on board is permitted and popular. The key is to distinguish between solids and liquids.
Solid products: Sandwiches, salads (without a lot of sauce), fruit, vegetables, sweets, cookies, nuts, bars, as well as hard cheeses (e.g. Parmesan, cheddar) can be transported without restrictions.
Liquids and Semi-Liquids: Any products with a paste, cream, or gel consistency are subject to the 100ml fluid limit. This includes yogurts, jams, honey, hummus, peanut butter, as well as soft and creamy cheeses such as Brie, Camembert, cottage cheese, and marinated mozzarella.
Cakes and pastries: Cakes with a solid consistency (e.g., yeast dough, shortcrust pastry, sponge cake) are permitted. Cakes with a large amount of cream, jelly, or very moist cheesecakes may pose a problem, as they may be interpreted by security as liquids and subject to a limit.
Canned food: This is a problematic category. Metal cans are difficult to clearly interpret on X-ray. Furthermore, canned food almost always contains a liquid, which means the entire can is considered a liquid container and falls under the 100ml limit. In practice, this means that standard-sized canned food will be confiscated. It's safer to pack it in checked baggage.
Special and Delicate Items
Some subjects require special preparation and knowledge of specific rules.
Medicines and medical equipment:
General rule: Always carry essential medications in your carry-on luggage to ensure they are readily available and to avoid problems if your checked luggage is lost. Ideally, keep them in their original packaging.
Medications requiring refrigeration (e.g., insulin): These must be transported in a special insulated bag or a small travel cooler, preferably with a cooling pack. Insulin is sensitive to freezing, so it should never be placed in the hold, where temperatures are extremely low.
CPAP machines (for sleep apnea): These are considered medical devices and do not count towards your carry-on baggage allowance , meaning you can bring them on board as an additional, free piece of baggage. They must be carried in a dedicated bag. To use the device during a flight, you must contact the airline in advance and obtain approval; battery power is often required.
Musical instruments:
Small instruments (e.g. violin, ukulele, small guitar) that fit within the airline's carry-on baggage size limits may be carried on board as the only piece of carry-on baggage.
Larger instruments (e.g., cello, large guitar) require special handling. There are two possible solutions: purchasing an additional, paid cabin seat for the instrument (called cabin seat baggage ) or checking it in as checked baggage, necessarily in a hard, rigid protective case.
Urns containing ashes: Carrying an urn containing human ashes is possible, and most airlines (e.g., Ryanair) allow it on board in your carry-on baggage, often as an additional item above the standard allowance. It's crucial that two conditions are met:
Documentation: You must have a copy of the death certificate and cremation certificate.
Urn: Must be made of an X-ray-safe material (e.g., wood, plastic, ceramic—not metal) and tightly closed to prevent spillage. It's always a good idea to confirm specific requirements directly with the carrier.
What and Where to Pack? A Quick Guide to What to Pack in Hand Luggage and What to Put in Checked Luggage
Item | Hand Luggage | Checked Baggage | Key Tips |
Power bank / Lithium batteries | Only here | Forbidden | Protect against short circuits. Power of 100-160 Wh requires line approval. |
Drone (body) | Yes | Yes | Always carry batteries in your carry-on luggage. Check your airline's regulations. |
Laptop / Tablet | Yes | Yes (not recommended) | It must be taken out for inspection. It's safer in carry-on. |
Liquids > 100 ml (standard) | NO | Yes | This applies, for example, to large cosmetics and beverages. |
Liquid medications > 100 ml | Yes (exception) | Yes | Report separately for inspection. Bring a medical certificate with you. |
Soft cheese / Yogurt / Jam | Yes (up to 100 ml) | Yes | Treated as liquids, they are subject to a 100 ml carry-on limit. |
Hard cheese | Yes | Yes | No quantity restrictions (except for baggage weight limit). |
Empty bottle / Thermos | Yes | Yes | Must be empty during security check. |
Knife / Pocket Knife (> 6 cm blade) | NO | Yes | Sharp objects of this length are prohibited in the cabin. |
Disposable lighter | Yes (1 piece, on you) | NO | Prohibited in hand and checked baggage; allowed 1 pc in pocket. |
Control in the World – Where to Expect Differences?
Although global guidelines exist (e.g. International Civil Aviation Organization, ICAO), airport security screening procedures are primarily an expression of national or regional sovereignty.
This means that local laws, risk assessments, and culture take precedence over universal standards. When traveling internationally, you should be prepared for significant differences.
Europe vs. USA (TSA) – A Clash of Two Philosophies
The greatest differences in passenger experiences are seen on transatlantic routes. These differences stem from differing safety philosophies.
Approach and Philosophy:
European Union: A system based on a common legal framework (primarily Regulation (EC) No 300/2008 and its implementing acts) that seeks to balance high security standards with the protection of fundamental rights, including the right to privacy. Standardization and predictability of procedures are sought.
United States (TSA - Transportation Security Administration ): An agency established after the September 11, 2001, attacks, whose initial goal was to create a multi-layered defense system designed to prevent 100% of potential attacks. Historically, this has led to more intrusive and frequently changing procedures. Currently, the TSA is evolving toward a risk-based model (
risk-based security ), which is reflected in programs for trusted travelers.
Key Differences in Procedures:
Footwear: For nearly two decades, the standard requirement in the US was for all passengers to remove their shoes in standard lines. The recent announcement to end this requirement represents a fundamental shift in the traveler experience. In Europe, shoe removal is required much less frequently, typically only for bulky, high-heeled footwear or when specifically requested by an officer.
Manual Inspection (Pat-down): In the US, this is often perceived as more detailed and invasive (so-called enhanced pat-down ) than its European counterpart, which is considered more discreet.
Trusted Traveler Programs :
USA (TSA PreCheck®): This is a key difference. After passing the background check and paying the fee, program members (primarily US citizens and residents) enjoy a much faster screening process. They don't have to remove shoes, light jackets, belts, or remove laptops or liquids from their luggage. This creates a "two-speed" system, unavailable in this form in Europe. Children under 12 can enjoy parental privileges, but teenagers (ages 13-17) are not guaranteed access.
EU: There is no single, EU-wide equivalent to TSA PreCheck. Passengers can use border control facilities (ABC gates, future EES system), but the security screening itself (baggage screening, personal searches) is conducted according to the same rules for everyone.
A Look at Other Regions
Middle East (e.g., Dubai - DXB, Doha - DOH): Baggage screening procedures are largely similar to those in Europe (100ml limit, electronics removed). However, very strict customs regulations are unique, prohibiting the import of items such as alcohol (beyond duty-free limits), pork products, certain medications, and materials deemed offensive to local culture. Flights from this region to the US are often subject to additional, enhanced security checks at the gate.
Asia (e.g., Japan – Narita NRT): The Japanese system exemplifies the uncompromising enforcement of local standards. Passengers in transit, even those arriving from another country with high security standards, must undergo a full re-screening according to Japan's stringent security criteria before boarding their next flight. This demonstrates that global harmonization has its limits, where a country's sovereign risk assessment begins.
Europe vs. USA (TSA) – Major Differences in Screening
Procedure / Aspect | European Union | USA (TSA - Standard) | USA (TSA PreCheck®) |
Taking off your shoes | Rarely, on demand | No (change from 2025) | NO |
Removing the laptop | Yes | Yes | NO |
Removing liquids (1L bag) | Yes | Yes | NO |
Trusted Traveler program availability | No (in terms of security checks) | Yes | Applies to program members |
General philosophy | Balancing security and civil rights, standardization | Historically "zero risk", now evolving towards risk assessment | Expedited screening for those with low, verified risk |
The globalization of air travel might suggest a single, universal security system. In reality, it's a patchwork of sovereign jurisdictions. When crossing a border, travelers enter a new legal and procedural system.
Awareness of these differences is crucial to avoiding misunderstandings and stress, and also demonstrates that aviation safety, despite international cooperation, remains the domain of national and regional decisions.
Your Rights and Problem Solving
Knowing the procedures is one thing, but being aware of your rights as a passenger is equally important. In controversial or unusual situations, this knowledge allows you to act effectively and calmly.
What to do if you disagree with the decision of the border guard/airport service?
Who has the final say? It's important to remember that at the security checkpoint, the final and binding decision rests with the airport security officer . Their role is to enforce security regulations, which override the airline's internal regulations. If the officer deems an item potentially dangerous, the airline cannot allow it on board.
Procedure in case of dispute:
Stay calm: Arguing, raising your voice, or physically resisting is the worst possible course of action. Such behavior can be interpreted as "obstructing official duties" and lead to much more serious consequences, including denied boarding and legal action.
Request to speak with a supervisor: If you believe the decision is the result of a misunderstanding or misinterpretation of regulations, you have the right to request a conversation with the shift manager or supervisor. A calm argument and a request for a reassessment can sometimes be effective.
File a formal complaint: If an item is confiscated and you believe your rights have been violated, you can file a formal complaint after the inspection. In the European Union, complaints about border or customs actions are filed with the appropriate national authorities (in Poland, for example, the Nadwiślański Oddział Straży Granicznej). You can also contact the Passenger Rights Ombudsman at the Civil Aviation Authority (ULC) or, in the case of cross-border disputes, the European Consumer Centre. In the US, the TSA provides dedicated channels for filing complaints, including online forms and a hotline.
Damage or loss of property during an inspection
Liability: Two situations must be distinguished. If your property (e.g., a laptop) is damaged directly during a security check by an officer, the body conducting the check (e.g., airport security in the EU, TSA in the US) is liable and the claim should be filed with them. However, if your luggage (mainly checked luggage) is damaged or lost
during transport by the airline (i.e. after it has been dispatched), the carrier is liable.
Claims Procedure (in the EU): If your checked baggage is damaged or missing, please proceed immediately upon arrival to the baggage claim desk ( Baggage Claim or Lost & Found ). There, you must complete a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) , which forms the basis for any further claims. You should then submit a written complaint to the airline – within 7 days for damaged baggage or 21 days of receipt for delays.
Traveling with valuable items
General rule: Always carry jewelry, cash, key documents, and small, valuable electronics in your carry-on luggage , preferably directly on your person. Never place such items in checked luggage, which may be lost or inspected outside your presence.
Private Search: If you are transporting very valuable items and do not wish to publicly display them on the conveyor belt, you have the right to ask the officer to conduct the search in a separate, discreet room.
Customs Declaration: Remember that security screening and customs inspection are two different processes. Bringing cash or items worth more than a certain amount (e.g., $10,000 in the U.S.) requires a customs declaration upon entry. This also applies to newly purchased, valuable jewelry.
Passengers requiring special assistance
Airports and airlines have an obligation to provide assistance to people with special needs.
People with disabilities:
Prosthetic limbs: Passengers are not required to remove their prosthetic limbs. They must inform the officer prior to the screening. The prosthetic limb may be subject to additional inspection (visual, manual, or explosives testing). You can always request that this part of the screening be conducted in a private area.
Assistance Programs: In both the US (TSA Cares program) and the EU, special assistance can be requested. Please contact the airline or airport at least 48 hours before departure to express your needs.
People on the autism spectrum and their families:
Preparation: Many airlines (e.g. Aer Lingus) and airports offer special materials, so-called social stories , which describe the travel and check-in process step by step, helping to prepare a person with autism for new experiences.
Communication and identification: It's a good idea to inform the airline in advance of any special needs. At the airport, you can discreetly inform staff about them by using special cards (like the TSA Notification Card) or badges from the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program , which is being recognized at a growing number of European airports.
Rights during the inspection: A parent or guardian has the right to remain with the child throughout the duration of the inspection and accompany the child during any inspection in a separate room.
Summary
Airport security checks, although governed by complex regulations, become much simpler when approached with the right knowledge and preparation.
Understanding procedures, packing rules and your rights is the best way to minimise stress and ensure a smooth start to your trip.
Key Findings:
Prepare: Check current regulations before departure. Knowing what and how to pack is essential.
Remember liquids: Across Europe, a temporary return to the 100ml limit per container in carry-on luggage applies. Exceptions apply to medicines and baby food.
Electronics and batteries: Always carry power banks and spare lithium batteries in your carry-on luggage and only when properly secured.
Communicate: If you have special needs, unusual luggage (e.g. medical equipment, instrument) or any concerns, do not hesitate to inform airport staff.
Stay calm: Checkpoint procedures are standard, and officers are trained to handle a variety of situations. Calmness and cooperation are your best allies in any situation, even the most stressful.
Remember, the purpose of security checks is to protect us all. A well-prepared passenger is a calm passenger, ready to enjoy the journey. Safe flights!
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