Originally Posted by
LAX_JOHN
Hello:
I am new here and wondered if any frequent flier could help with my fear of passenger carry on security screening. I have not flown in 4 years and now my fear has grown.
1) If Airports in Europe do NOT require shoe removal and only have a metal detector (no mmw scanner like the US)- how are they effectively screening out people that try to board the planes with non metallic/ plastic explosives concealed under their clothing or in their shoes? like the Shoe Bomber, Underwear Bomber? This seems like a pretty big risk?
2) Can airport security staff (xray machines) detect an explosive in a carry on laptop?
I am planning to fly Lufthansa next month and going thru Frankfurt from USA to Asia and wondered as I have seen more terrorism in Europe than the US.
I appreciate anybody with knowledge providing me with some information and hopefully some re-assurance.
Thanks.
John
First, welcome to FT!
2nd, As noted by the previous responses, actual incidences of threats to commercial aviation, even prior to 9/11, when taken in relation to the number of actual flights, are exceedingly rare and the probability that a flight you are on will be one of the targets is equally improbable.
3rd. Also, as noted, you are much more likely to have a negative event in your bathtub, crossing the street or traveling in an automobile than on a commercial flight. Your handle gives an indication you reside in USA, southern Caulifornia in particular. If so, and if you are comfortable riding SoCal's highways in an automobile, then you should be significantly more comfortable taking commercial aviation which has magnitudes lower probabilities of negative incidents, let alone terrorist-type incidents.
4. In regards to people secreting explosives not in metallic containers: the number of people in Europe with actual access to such materials, let alone those with access AND having intent AND having the capability to attack commercial aviation is astonishingly small. Government, aviation, and airline security organizations across the planet are pretty good at identifying and keeping tabs on such risks. Also, such devices still need metallic parts (wires, switches, power sources, detonators, etc.) for a complete effective working device - which personnel are trained to screen for and identify at passenger screening checkpoints.
5. Yes, airport scanners can detect items that appear to be explosive devices concealed in laptops or other common items. Screening personnel are specifically trained to identify such devices and single them out for additional screening.
So, sit back, (put your feet up if in F or J), have an adult beverage if you indulge, and relax and enjoy your trip!