Airport Security Screening Procedures Flashcards

Which government agency sets the security screening standards for commercial airports in the United States?

Answer: Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

The TSA was established after 9/11 and is responsible for setting and enforcing security screening standards at all US commercial airports.

What is the correct response when a passenger refuses to remove their shoes during the screening process?

Answer: Offer alternative screening methods such as a manual pat-down

When a passenger cannot or refuses to remove shoes, alternative screening such as a manual pat-down or explosive trace detection must be offered.

What does the term 'sterile area' refer to in airport security?

Answer: The area beyond the security checkpoint where only screened passengers are permitted

The sterile area is the secured zone past the security checkpoint that only screened passengers and authorized personnel may access.

How should a screening officer handle an item that alarms the X-ray machine but cannot be clearly identified on the monitor?

Answer: Conduct a physical search of the bag and use additional screening tools

Unidentified alarms must be resolved through physical search and additional screening tools such as ETD swabs before the passenger is cleared.

What is the TSA's '3-1-1' liquids rule for carry-on bags?

Answer: Liquids must be 3.4 oz or less, in 1 quart-sized bag, 1 bag per passenger

The 3-1-1 rule allows liquids in containers of 3.4 oz (100ml) or less, placed in one clear quart-sized bag, with one bag allowed per passenger.

A passenger with a medical implant triggers the walk-through metal detector. What is the appropriate next step?

Answer: Use advanced imaging technology or a pat-down as an alternative

Passengers with medical implants that trigger detectors should be screened using AIT or a thorough pat-down as alternatives to metal detectors.