Navigating airport security can be stressful, especially when you’re unsure about what you can bring. FOODS.EDU.VN provides a clear guide about bringing food through TSA checkpoints, ensuring a smooth travel experience. Learn the rules, regulations, and helpful tips for traveling with food items, allowing you to pack your favorite snacks and meals with confidence and enjoy delicious food on your journey. This article also covers TSA food rules, carrying food on a plane, and airport security food policies.
1. Understanding TSA Food Regulations: An Overview
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific guidelines about bringing food through airport security. These regulations aim to ensure safety while allowing passengers to travel with necessary food items. It’s essential to understand these rules to avoid delays or complications during screening. Let’s explore the general guidelines for taking food through TSA.
1.1. General Rules for Solid Foods
Solid foods are generally allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage. This includes items like sandwiches, fruits, vegetables, snacks, and baked goods. However, there can be exceptions based on the specific food item and how it’s packaged. Here’s a quick overview:
- Allowed: Most solid foods are permitted.
- Considerations: Ensure food is properly sealed to prevent spills or odors.
- Restrictions: Some fresh fruits and vegetables might be restricted based on agricultural regulations, especially for international flights.
1.2. Liquid Foods and the 3-1-1 Rule
Liquid foods are subject to the 3-1-1 rule, which applies to all liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes. This rule states:
- 3: Liquids must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less.
- 1: All containers must fit into one quart-sized, clear plastic zip-top bag.
- 1: Each passenger is limited to one quart-sized bag of liquids.
Examples of liquid foods include:
- Soups
- Sauces
- Jams and jellies
- Dips
1.3. Exceptions to the 3-1-1 Rule
There are exceptions to the 3-1-1 rule for certain food items, particularly those considered medically necessary or for infants. These include:
- Baby formula and breast milk: Allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding 3.4 ounces.
- Medically necessary foods: Gels or liquids needed for medical reasons are also exempt.
It’s important to inform the TSA officer about these items at the beginning of the screening process.
1.4. Specific Food Items and TSA Guidelines
To provide more clarity, here’s a table outlining common food items and whether they are generally allowed in carry-on and checked baggage:
| Food Item | Carry-On | Checked Baggage |
|---|---|---|
| Sandwiches | Yes, generally allowed | Yes, generally allowed |
| Fruits & Vegetables | Yes, but check for agricultural restrictions, especially for international flights | Yes, but be aware of agricultural restrictions |
| Snacks (chips, etc.) | Yes, generally allowed | Yes, generally allowed |
| Baked Goods | Yes, generally allowed | Yes, generally allowed |
| Soups | Subject to the 3-1-1 rule (containers of 3.4 oz or less) unless considered medically necessary or for infants | Yes, but ensure they are properly sealed to prevent leaks |
| Sauces | Subject to the 3-1-1 rule unless considered medically necessary or for infants | Yes, but ensure they are properly sealed |
| Jams & Jellies | Subject to the 3-1-1 rule unless considered medically necessary or for infants | Yes, but ensure they are properly sealed |
| Baby Formula | Allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding 3.4 oz; inform TSA officer | Yes, generally allowed |
| Breast Milk | Allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding 3.4 oz; inform TSA officer; cooling accessories like ice packs are also allowed | Yes, generally allowed; cooling accessories should be packed securely |
| Ice Packs | Allowed to cool formula, breast milk, or medically necessary items; may be subject to additional screening if partially frozen or slushy | Yes, but ensure they are packed securely to prevent leaks |
1.5. Tips for Packing Food
Here are some tips to make your journey smoother:
- Pack Smart: Place food items in clear, resealable bags or containers.
- Declare: Inform the TSA officer about any liquid food items exceeding the 3-1-1 rule at the beginning of the screening process.
- Check Restrictions: Be aware of any agricultural restrictions, especially for international travel.
- Keep it Cool: Use ice packs or frozen gel packs to keep perishable items fresh. These are allowed but may be subject to additional screening if partially frozen or slushy.
1.6. Traveling with Baby Food
Traveling with infants requires special consideration. Baby formula, breast milk, and baby food are exempt from the 3-1-1 rule in reasonable quantities. Here are some key points:
- Quantity: You can bring more than 3.4 ounces of baby formula and breast milk.
- Notification: Inform the TSA officer that you are carrying these items.
- Screening: Be prepared for additional screening of these items. TSA officers may need to test the liquids for explosives or concealed prohibited items.
- Cooling Accessories: Ice packs, freezer packs, and gel packs used to cool breast milk or formula are also allowed.
1.7. What Happens During Screening?
During the screening process, TSA officers may need to inspect your food items. This could involve:
- Visual Inspection: Officers may visually inspect the food items.
- Explosives Testing: Liquids may be tested for explosives.
- X-ray Scanning: Food items might be X-rayed. TSA states that X-ray machines do not adversely affect food or medicines. However, if you prefer to avoid X-ray scanning, inform the TSA officer.
If you do not want your baby formula, breast milk, or baby food to be X-rayed or opened, additional steps will be taken. You or the traveling guardian will undergo additional screening procedures, including Advanced Imaging Technology screening and enhanced screening of other carry-on property.
1.8. Additional Resources and Information
For more detailed information and updates, refer to the official TSA website (www.tsa.gov). You can also contact TSA Cares for assistance with special accommodations or concerns about the security screening process. TSA Cares can be reached online or by phone at (855) 787-2227.
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2. Navigating TSA Rules for Specific Food Types
Understanding the general guidelines is a good start, but knowing the specifics for different types of food can further streamline your airport experience. Let’s delve into the TSA regulations for various food categories, providing clarity and practical advice.
2.1. Baked Goods
Baked goods like cookies, cakes, pies, and bread are generally allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Packaging: To prevent crumbling or damage, pack baked goods in airtight containers or resealable bags.
- Frosting: If your baked goods have frosting, consider the potential for smearing. Transporting them in a rigid container can help maintain their appearance.
- Quantity: While there are no specific quantity restrictions, be mindful of space limitations in your carry-on.
2.2. Fruits and Vegetables
Fresh fruits and vegetables are usually allowed, but it’s crucial to check for agricultural restrictions, especially when traveling internationally.
- Domestic Flights: Generally, you can carry fruits and vegetables within the United States.
- International Flights: Many countries have strict regulations to prevent the spread of plant diseases and pests. Check the regulations of your destination country before packing any fresh produce.
- Tips: Wash and prepare fruits and vegetables before packing to save time and space. Use containers that prevent bruising.
2.3. Meats, Seafood, and Poultry
These items are permitted in both carry-on and checked baggage, but there are specific guidelines for keeping them fresh.
- Fresh Items: If transporting fresh meat, seafood, or poultry, ensure they are properly cooled. Ice packs and freezer packs are allowed, but if they are partially frozen or slushy, they may be subject to additional screening.
- Cooked Items: Cooked meats, seafood, and poultry are easier to transport and less prone to spoilage.
- Packaging: Use airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags to prevent odors and leaks.
2.4. Snacks: Chips, Candy, and More
Snacks such as chips, pretzels, candy, and granola bars are almost always allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage.
- Convenience: These items are easy to pack and don’t require special handling.
- Variety: Consider packing a variety of snacks to satisfy different cravings during your trip.
- Considerations: Be mindful of packaging to prevent crushing, especially for chips and other delicate items.
2.5. Spreads and Dips
Spreads and dips, such as peanut butter, hummus, and salsa, fall under the 3-1-1 rule if they are in liquid or gel form.
- 3-1-1 Rule: Containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less and fit in a quart-sized bag.
- Alternatives: Consider buying travel-sized versions of your favorite spreads or dips.
- Checked Baggage: If you want to bring larger quantities, pack them securely in your checked baggage to prevent leaks.
2.6. Dairy Products
Dairy products like cheese, yogurt, and milk are subject to specific rules.
- Cheese: Solid cheeses are generally allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage. Soft or spreadable cheeses fall under the 3-1-1 rule.
- Yogurt: Yogurt is considered a liquid and must comply with the 3-1-1 rule.
- Milk: Milk for adults is subject to the 3-1-1 rule. However, as mentioned earlier, breast milk and baby formula are exceptions.
2.7. Canned Goods
Canned goods are allowed but can be heavy and may present challenges during screening.
- Weight: Be mindful of the weight restrictions for carry-on baggage.
- Screening: TSA officers may need to inspect canned goods more closely.
- Considerations: If possible, opt for lighter alternatives or transfer the contents to resealable containers.
2.8. Homemade Meals
Bringing homemade meals can be a great way to ensure you have something enjoyable to eat during your travels.
- Consider the Contents: If your meal includes liquids or gels (such as sauces or soups), they must comply with the 3-1-1 rule.
- Packaging: Use leak-proof containers to prevent spills.
- Perishability: Choose foods that travel well and won’t spoil easily. Consider using insulated containers to keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold.
2.9. Specialty Items
For specialty items like spices, oils, and vinegars:
- Spices: Generally allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage.
- Oils and Vinegars: Subject to the 3-1-1 rule if in liquid form.
2.10. Comprehensive Table of Food Items and TSA Rules
To summarize, here’s a comprehensive table of various food items and their TSA regulations:
| Food Item | Carry-On | Checked Baggage |
|---|---|---|
| Cookies | Yes, generally allowed | Yes, generally allowed |
| Cakes | Yes, generally allowed | Yes, generally allowed |
| Pies | Yes, generally allowed | Yes, generally allowed |
| Bread | Yes, generally allowed | Yes, generally allowed |
| Fresh Fruits | Yes, but check for agricultural restrictions, especially for international flights | Yes, but be aware of agricultural restrictions |
| Fresh Vegetables | Yes, but check for agricultural restrictions, especially for international flights | Yes, but be aware of agricultural restrictions |
| Fresh Meat | Yes, if properly cooled; may be subject to additional screening | Yes, if properly cooled |
| Cooked Meat | Yes, generally allowed | Yes, generally allowed |
| Fresh Seafood | Yes, if properly cooled; may be subject to additional screening | Yes, if properly cooled |
| Cooked Seafood | Yes, generally allowed | Yes, generally allowed |
| Fresh Poultry | Yes, if properly cooled; may be subject to additional screening | Yes, if properly cooled |
| Cooked Poultry | Yes, generally allowed | Yes, generally allowed |
| Chips | Yes, generally allowed | Yes, generally allowed |
| Candy | Yes, generally allowed | Yes, generally allowed |
| Granola Bars | Yes, generally allowed | Yes, generally allowed |
| Peanut Butter | Subject to the 3-1-1 rule | Yes, but ensure it is properly sealed |
| Hummus | Subject to the 3-1-1 rule | Yes, but ensure it is properly sealed |
| Salsa | Subject to the 3-1-1 rule | Yes, but ensure it is properly sealed |
| Solid Cheese | Yes, generally allowed | Yes, generally allowed |
| Soft Cheese | Subject to the 3-1-1 rule | Yes, but ensure it is properly sealed |
| Yogurt | Subject to the 3-1-1 rule | Yes, but ensure it is properly sealed |
| Milk (Adult) | Subject to the 3-1-1 rule | Yes, but ensure it is properly sealed |
| Canned Goods | Yes, but may be subject to additional screening | Yes, but be mindful of weight restrictions |
| Spices | Yes, generally allowed | Yes, generally allowed |
| Oils | Subject to the 3-1-1 rule | Yes, but ensure they are properly sealed |
| Vinegars | Subject to the 3-1-1 rule | Yes, but ensure they are properly sealed |
| Homemade Meals | Varies depending on contents; liquids/gels subject to the 3-1-1 rule | Yes, but ensure they are properly sealed and won’t spoil |
| Baby Food (Pouches) | Allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding 3.4 oz; inform TSA officer | Yes, generally allowed |
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3. Essential Tips for a Smooth TSA Food Screening Experience
Going through airport security with food doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can navigate the TSA food screening process smoothly and efficiently. Here are some essential tips to help you:
3.1. Pack Food in Clear, Resealable Containers
Using clear, resealable containers is one of the best ways to expedite the screening process.
- Visibility: TSA officers can easily see the contents without needing to open the container.
- Convenience: Resealable containers are easy to open and close, making inspection quicker.
- Leak Prevention: They help prevent leaks and spills, keeping your belongings clean.
3.2. Keep Food Easily Accessible
When packing your carry-on, place food items in an easily accessible location.
- Top Layer: Putting food on top of your other belongings allows you to quickly remove it for inspection.
- Separate Compartment: If your bag has a separate compartment, use it to store food items.
- Avoid Overpacking: Overpacking can make it difficult to find and remove food items, causing delays.
3.3. Declare Food Items to TSA Officers
Transparency is key. Informing the TSA officer about the food items you are carrying can streamline the screening process.
- Initial Notification: As you approach the screening area, let the officer know you have food items in your bag.
- Specifics: Mention any liquid food items or exceptions to the 3-1-1 rule, such as baby formula or medically necessary foods.
- Honesty: Being upfront can prevent misunderstandings and ensure a smoother experience.
3.4. Know the 3-1-1 Rule Inside and Out
Understanding the 3-1-1 rule is crucial for traveling with liquids and gels.
- Containers: Ensure all liquids and gels are in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less.
- Quart-Sized Bag: All containers must fit into one quart-sized, clear plastic zip-top bag.
- One Bag Per Passenger: Each passenger is limited to one quart-sized bag of liquids.
3.5. Be Prepared for Additional Screening
TSA officers may need to conduct additional screening on your food items.
- Visual Inspection: Be prepared for officers to visually inspect your food.
- Explosives Testing: Liquids may be tested for explosives.
- X-Ray Scanning: Food items might be X-rayed.
- Cooperation: Cooperate with TSA officers and follow their instructions to expedite the process.
3.6. Consider TSA PreCheck
If you travel frequently, consider enrolling in TSA PreCheck.
- Expedited Screening: TSA PreCheck members enjoy expedited screening, which often includes shorter lines and less stringent requirements for removing items from your bag.
- Convenience: This can save you time and reduce stress, making your travel experience more pleasant.
3.7. Stay Updated on TSA Regulations
TSA regulations can change, so it’s essential to stay informed.
- Official Website: Check the official TSA website (www.tsa.gov) for the latest updates.
- Social Media: Follow TSA on social media for announcements and tips.
- News Articles: Read news articles and travel blogs for current information.
3.8. Pack Snacks for Delays
Airport delays can happen, so it’s always a good idea to pack snacks.
- Non-Perishable Items: Choose non-perishable items that won’t spoil easily, such as granola bars, nuts, or dried fruit.
- Hydration: Bring an empty water bottle to fill after you pass through security.
- Convenience: Having snacks on hand can help you stay comfortable and avoid hunger during delays.
3.9. Be Mindful of Agricultural Restrictions
When traveling internationally, be aware of agricultural restrictions.
- Destination Country: Check the regulations of your destination country before packing any fresh produce or other agricultural items.
- Declaration Forms: Be prepared to declare any agricultural items on customs forms.
- Avoid Confiscation: To avoid having your food confiscated, err on the side of caution and leave questionable items at home.
3.10. Pack Smart and Light
Packing smart and light can make your entire travel experience more enjoyable.
- Essentials Only: Bring only the food items you truly need.
- Travel-Sized Containers: Use travel-sized containers for liquids and gels.
- Lightweight Bags: Choose lightweight bags that are easy to carry.
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4. Traveling with Special Dietary Needs: TSA Considerations
For individuals with special dietary needs, such as allergies, medical conditions, or specific dietary preferences, traveling with food requires extra planning. The TSA is generally accommodating to these needs, but it’s essential to be prepared and informed. Here’s how to navigate TSA regulations while adhering to your dietary requirements.
4.1. Medical Conditions and Dietary Restrictions
If you have a medical condition or dietary restriction, such as diabetes, celiac disease, or food allergies, you are allowed to bring medically necessary food items through security.
- Documentation: While not always required, it’s a good idea to have a doctor’s note or medical documentation explaining your condition and the need for specific food items.
- Notification: Inform the TSA officer about your medical condition and the food items you are carrying.
- Reasonable Quantities: You are allowed to bring medically necessary food in reasonable quantities, even if it exceeds the 3-1-1 rule for liquids and gels.
4.2. Allergies
Traveling with food allergies can be particularly challenging. Here’s how to manage it:
- Safe Foods: Pack your own safe foods to avoid potential allergens in airport food or meals served on the plane.
- Label Reading: Always read labels carefully to ensure the food you are consuming is free from allergens.
- Communication: Communicate your allergies to airline staff and request accommodations, such as allergen-free meals.
4.3. Specific Dietary Preferences
Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or follow a specific diet like keto or paleo, planning ahead is essential.
- Pack Your Meals: Pack your own meals and snacks to ensure you have options that meet your dietary needs.
- Research Airport Options: Research food options available at the airport and on your flight to see if they align with your preferences.
- Be Prepared: Be prepared to explain your dietary preferences to TSA officers if necessary.
4.4. Tips for Packing Medically Necessary Foods
When packing medically necessary foods, keep these tips in mind:
- Clear Labeling: Clearly label your food items as medically necessary.
- Easy Access: Pack them in an easily accessible location in your carry-on.
- Documentation: Have a doctor’s note or medical documentation if possible.
4.5. Liquid Medications and Dietary Supplements
Liquid medications and dietary supplements are exempt from the 3-1-1 rule if they are medically necessary.
- Notification: Inform the TSA officer about these items.
- Documentation: Carry a prescription or doctor’s note if possible.
- Screening: Be prepared for additional screening of these items.
4.6. Traveling with Baby Formula and Breast Milk
As mentioned earlier, baby formula and breast milk are exempt from the 3-1-1 rule.
- Reasonable Quantities: You can bring more than 3.4 ounces of baby formula and breast milk.
- Notification: Inform the TSA officer that you are carrying these items.
- Screening: Be prepared for additional screening of these items.
- Cooling Accessories: Ice packs, freezer packs, and gel packs used to cool breast milk or formula are also allowed.
4.7. Comprehensive Table for Special Dietary Needs
Here’s a comprehensive table summarizing TSA considerations for special dietary needs:
| Dietary Need | TSA Considerations | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Conditions | Medically necessary food items are allowed in reasonable quantities, even if they exceed the 3-1-1 rule. | Carry a doctor’s note, inform the TSA officer, and pack items in an accessible location. |
| Allergies | Pack your own safe foods to avoid potential allergens. | Read labels carefully, communicate allergies to airline staff, and request accommodations. |
| Vegetarian/Vegan | Pack your own meals and snacks to ensure you have options that meet your dietary needs. | Research airport options and be prepared to explain your dietary preferences. |
| Keto/Paleo | Pack your own meals and snacks to adhere to your specific diet. | Plan ahead and choose non-perishable items that align with your dietary requirements. |
| Liquid Medications | Exempt from the 3-1-1 rule if medically necessary. | Inform the TSA officer, carry a prescription or doctor’s note, and be prepared for additional screening. |
| Dietary Supplements (Liquid) | Exempt from the 3-1-1 rule if medically necessary. | Inform the TSA officer, carry a prescription or doctor’s note, and be prepared for additional screening. |
| Baby Formula/Breast Milk | Allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding 3.4 oz. | Inform the TSA officer, be prepared for additional screening, and use cooling accessories like ice packs. |
| Cooling Accessories | Allowed for cooling formula, breast milk, or medically necessary items; may be subject to additional screening if partially frozen or slushy. | Ensure they are packed securely to prevent leaks. |
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5. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Bringing Food Through TSA
Navigating airport security with food can be straightforward if you avoid common pitfalls. Many travelers face unnecessary delays or confiscations due to simple errors. Understanding these mistakes can help you prepare better and ensure a smoother TSA experience. Here are some frequent errors to avoid:
5.1. Not Knowing the 3-1-1 Rule
One of the most common mistakes is being unaware of the 3-1-1 rule for liquids and gels.
- Consequences: Liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated.
- Solution: Always ensure liquids and gels are in travel-sized containers and placed in a quart-sized bag.
5.2. Forgetting to Declare Food Items
Failing to declare food items to TSA officers can lead to additional scrutiny and delays.
- Consequences: Officers may need to conduct a more thorough search of your bag.
- Solution: Inform the TSA officer about any food items you are carrying as you approach the screening area.
5.3. Packing Food Inaccessibly
Packing food deep inside your bag can make it difficult for TSA officers to inspect.
- Consequences: Officers may need to unpack your entire bag to access the food.
- Solution: Pack food items in an easily accessible location, such as the top layer of your carry-on.
5.4. Ignoring Agricultural Restrictions
Ignoring agricultural restrictions, especially for international travel, can result in confiscation of your food.
- Consequences: Fresh fruits, vegetables, and other agricultural items may be prohibited from entering certain countries.
- Solution: Check the regulations of your destination country before packing any fresh produce.
5.5. Not Properly Sealing Food
Improperly sealed food can lead to leaks and spills, causing messes and delays.
- Consequences: Leaks can damage your belongings and require additional cleaning.
- Solution: Use airtight containers or resealable bags to prevent leaks and spills.
5.6. Overpacking Liquids and Gels
Trying to sneak in larger quantities of liquids and gels than allowed is a common mistake.
- Consequences: Excess liquids will be confiscated.
- Solution: Adhere to the 3-1-1 rule and only bring travel-sized containers of liquids and gels.
5.7. Bringing Prohibited Items
Some food items are simply not allowed through security, regardless of packaging.
- Consequences: Prohibited items will be confiscated.
- Solution: Check the TSA website for a list of prohibited items before packing.
5.8. Not Considering Perishability
Packing perishable food items without proper cooling can lead to spoilage and health risks.
- Consequences: Spoiled food can cause illness.
- Solution: Use ice packs or insulated containers to keep perishable items fresh.
5.9. Neglecting Medical Documentation
If you have a medical condition requiring specific food items, neglecting to bring documentation can cause issues.
- Consequences: TSA officers may question the need for the food items.
- Solution: Carry a doctor’s note or medical documentation explaining your condition.
5.10. Assuming All Airports Are the Same
Assuming that all airports have the same rules and regulations can be a mistake, especially when traveling internationally.
- Consequences: Different airports may have different security procedures.
- Solution: Check the specific regulations of the airports you will be traveling through.
5.11. Comprehensive Table of Common Mistakes and Solutions
Here’s a comprehensive table summarizing common mistakes and their solutions:
| Mistake | Consequences | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Not Knowing the 3-1-1 Rule | Liquids in containers larger than 3.4 oz will be confiscated. | Ensure liquids and gels are in travel-sized containers and placed in a quart-sized bag. |
| Forgetting to Declare Food | Additional scrutiny and delays. | Inform the TSA officer about any food items you are carrying. |
| Packing Food Inaccessibly | Officers may need to unpack your entire bag. | Pack food items in an easily accessible location. |
| Ignoring Agricultural Restrictions | Confiscation of food. | Check the regulations of your destination country before packing fresh produce. |
| Not Properly Sealing Food | Leaks and spills, damaging belongings. | Use airtight containers or resealable bags. |
| Overpacking Liquids and Gels | Excess liquids will be confiscated. | Adhere to the 3-1-1 rule and only bring travel-sized containers. |
| Bringing Prohibited Items | Prohibited items will be confiscated. | Check the TSA website for a list of prohibited items before packing. |
| Not Considering Perishability | Spoiled food can cause illness. | Use ice packs or insulated containers to keep perishable items fresh. |
| Neglecting Medical Documentation | TSA officers may question the need for food items. | Carry a doctor’s note or medical documentation. |
| Assuming All Airports Are the Same | Different security procedures may apply. | Check the specific regulations of the airports you will be traveling through. |
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6. The Role of Technology in TSA Food Screening
Technology plays a crucial role in modern airport security, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of food screening processes. Advanced imaging systems, explosive detection technologies, and automated systems are now integral to ensuring passenger safety while minimizing disruptions. Here’s a closer look at how technology is transforming TSA food screening:
6.1. Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT)
Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) is used to detect concealed items, including food, on passengers.
- How it Works: AIT machines use millimeter wave or backscatter technology to create an image of the passenger’s body, revealing any hidden objects.
- Benefits: AIT can quickly and effectively identify potential threats without requiring physical contact.
- Considerations: Passengers can opt out of AIT screening, but they will then be subject to a pat-down.
