As for security, which has made air travel an invasive problem, security procedures are actually designed to protect us, the passengers. It is important for the safety of all who fly that each passenger’s carry-on, checked and physical baggage is checked using airport baggage scanners to ensure compliance with restrictions.
How do airport baggage scanners work?
If you’ve ever wondered how airport baggage scanners work, airports use two different types of scanners. The first are full-body scanners called millimeter wave scanners and create moving images like what we often see in movies.
Backscatter X-rays are designed to show objects hidden beneath clothing or luggage. They can detect both metallic and non-metallic objects, from guns to food and plastics. Some airports no longer use backscatter scanners because they are considered an invasion of privacy, but they are still used at major US, UK and European airports.
What do airport baggage scanners see?
Airport baggage scanners are clear enough to gather detailed images of your luggage’s contents, which is why so many of us wonder “what do airport baggage scanners detect?” ” They can detect metallic and non-metallic objects, including most organic materials. That means you may not be able to get away with smuggling prohibited foods in your suitcase.
Baggage scanners rely on X-rays to see through the surface of your luggage to get detailed images of the items inside it. Security officers can calculate the density of each object, thereby providing them with the necessary information to detect contraband. They may not be able to identify every item in your luggage, but if suspicious items are discovered, your bag may be searched. You should keep in mind the regulations regarding any prohibited items in carry-on luggage and keep them.