passengerscreening

Passenger screening refers to the set of procedures used to assess travelers and their belongings for security risks before and during air travel and at border crossings. It is a core component of aviation security and border control and is intended to prevent weapons, explosives, and other prohibited items from being carried onto aircraft, and to deter other threats to public safety.

In airports, screening typically begins with verification of identity and travel documents, and may include checks against watchlists. Security screening follows, assessing passengers and their carry-on items for prohibited items. Carry-on bags are usually examined with X-ray systems, while individuals are screened with metal detectors or advanced imaging technology. In some jurisdictions, explosive trace detection and random or risk-based screening are used to supplement standard checks. Liquids, gels, and aerosols are subject to quantity restrictions and testing.

Technology and procedures vary by country but commonly involve a combination of credential verification, document checks, bag screening, and passenger screening. Biometrics such as facial recognition or fingerprinting are increasingly deployed to speed processing or enhance identity verification in a privacy-conscious manner.

The program is governed by national security authorities and international standards set by organizations such as ICAO, with implementation often coordinated by national aviation or border agencies (for example, the TSA in the United States).

Debates focus on privacy, civil liberties, effectiveness, cost, and wait times, balanced against the goal of preventing harm.

Overall, passenger screening seeks to reduce risk while enabling safe and efficient travel, adapting to evolving threats and technologies.