Originally Posted by
RichardKenner
However, there are limits to the search. A magazine is not a threat to aviation. So I would have an expectation that my magazine would not be opened. If somebody did open it and discovered kiddy porn, I would hope that such evidence wouldn't be admissible.
Thanks Richard.
So far as I can tell you are right on target. But a magazine can be used to conceal a prohibited item. So, it might be opened if the TSO is searching for a prohibited item depending on what it is. If they noted kiddie porn then they are required to notify the supervisor who calls a LEO.
A flash drive (once that is determined to be what it is) is not a threat to aviation. So I would have an expectation that nobody would read the files on it and find that some were copyright violations and cite me for it.
At my airport we don’t have the ability to access the data on flash drives. I don’t see where this could be an issue. Now, there are a few places that sell knives that look like flash drives, I could see that as a reason to examine a drive, but not plug it in somewhere.
Currency is not a threat to aviation. So I have an expectation that nobody would count my currency and try to figure out my itinerary and/or if I filed any required forms.
Which is why if we believe that the amount of cash approaches the limit we call a LEO. They have the resources to deal with the issue, as well as the authority.