FlyerTalk Forums - View Single Post - ICOM handheld radio scanners not allowed past TSA security checkpoint, had to check

Apr 16, 2009 | 2:38 pm

#70

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Quote:

Originally Posted by TSORon

Craig, I am a member of the ARRL. They might be interested in this, they might not. HAMs know that thier equipment (trancievers) cannot be used on an aircraft without the captains permission. Laws prohibit it. Scanners do not transmit, so they should be allowed as long as the air crew allows it. TSA has nothing to do with these decisions.

Now, I dont know why this individuals scanner was not allowed. Again I say it is most likely we dont have the whole story, and therefore cannot honestly comment on the actions of the TSO.

Since every antenna is both a transmitter and a receiver, a scanner actually does transmit. Depending upon the frequencies in question, such devices could potentially interfere with communication systems on board an aircraft. This is the reason that TV receivers are never permitted to be operated on board an aircraft.

However, there is no prohibition by the airlines regarding the possession of scanners or portable TVs. The TSA should not be attempting to enforce non-existent bans of such items.

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