Prepare for Takeoff:
Security Process - Security Checkpoints

Passenger Security Checkpoints

You must pass through this checkpoint to access your departure gate. Security screeners will screen you and your carry-on baggage. You should find this screening process familiar, although enhanced security measures are in place.

If you refuse to be screened at any point during the screening process, the screener must deny you entry beyond the screening area. You will not be able to fly.

The passenger checkpoint includes 3 primary steps you may want to become familiar with:

Step 1. The X-ray machine

At the passenger security checkpoint, you will place all carry-on baggage and any items you are carrying with you on the belt of the X-ray machine. You will need to lay all items flat.

NOTE: TSA will screen any 'Carry-on' baggage that will fit through the x-ray machine, however, it is up to each individual air carrier as to whether the baggage fits the size restrictions for your flight. Please check with the air carrier prior to proceeding through the security checkpoints.

Laptop computers must be removed from their carrying cases and placed in one of the bins provided. You will also need to remove your outer coat or jacket and place it in one of the bins. These items go through the X-ray machine.

"IN - OUT - OFF"

• Place all metal items IN your carry-on baggage before you reach the front of the line.
• Take your computer OUT of its carrying case and place it in one of the bins provided.
• Take OFF your outer coat or jacket so that it can go through the X-ray machine (you do not need to remove your suit jacket, sport coat, or blazer unless you are asked to do so by one of the passenger screeners.)

TSA Shoe Screening Policy

Passengers are not required to take off their shoes before going through metal detectors.  However, if your shoes set off the metal detector, you will undergo secondary screening until the screener can locate the source of the alarm.

If you know your shoes contain metal, you may voluntarily take them off, place them in a bin, and allow them to be x-rayed.

Step 2. Walk-through metal detector

You will next walk through a metal detector, (or you may request a pat-down inspection instead). Objects on your clothing or person containing metal may set off the alarm on the metal detector.

You will undergo a secondary screening if you set off the alarm on the metal detector, or if you are chosen for additional screening. (See below)

TIP: Pack all metal items, including the contents of your pockets, in your carry-on baggage. Mobile phones, pagers, keys, lighters, and loose change are examples of items containing metal.

Step 3. Secondary screening

Secondary screening occurs when an individual sets off the alarm on the metal detector, or if he or she is selected for additional screening. This screening includes a hand-wand inspection in conjunction with a pat-down inspection.

If you must go through a secondary screening, the screener will direct you from the metal detector to a screening station where he or she will brief you on the next steps.

• At this time, you should let the screener know of any personal needs you may have due to a religious or cultural consideration, disability, or other medical concern.
• Except in extraordinary circumstances, a screener of your gender will conduct your secondary screening. You may request that your search be conducted in private.

While you will be separated from your carry-on baggage during this process, every effort will be made to help you maintain visual contact with your carry-ons.

Hand-Wand Inspection

The hand-wand inspection helps the screener to identify what may have set off the alarm on the metal detector.

During the wanding procedure, you will be asked to stand with your feet apart and the screener will pass the wand over your entire body without actually touching you with the wand. Every effort will be taken to do this as discretely as possible. Please take note of the following:

• Areas of the body that have body piercings, thick hair, hats, and other items may require a pat-down inspection.
• You may ask to remove your body piercing in private as an alternative to the pat-down search.
• The screener may ask you to open your belt buckle as part of the process.
• The screener may ask you to remove your shoes, and your shoes may be X-rayed separately.

TIP: It is recommended (but not a requirement) that individuals with a pacemaker, or other device that is likely to alarm the metal detector, bring identification verifying the condition. This may help to expedite the screening process.

Carry-On Baggage

If your bag is selected for secondary screening, it may be opened and examined on a table in your presence. Please DO NOT attempt to assist the screener during the search, and do not attempt to retrieve the item before the screener has advised you that the search is complete and your baggage is cleared.

Your baggage might also be inspected with an Explosive Trace Detection machine (ETD), which is separate from the X-ray machine.

Pat-Down Inspection

A pat-down inspection complements the hand-wand inspection. In order to ensure security, this inspection may include sensitive areas of the body. Screeners are rigorously trained to maintain the highest levels of professionalism.  You may request that your pat-down inspection be conducted in private.

Source: U.S. Department of Homeland Security