Originally Posted by danM
The problem is that technically, that isn't enough -- the device only checks for metal, while any shoe with a heel thicker than (I think) 1 inch is supposed to go through the scanner (they're looking for explosives a la Richard Reid), regardless of whether or not there's metal in the shoe.
Dan
In the last month I flew twice from BWI, with 2 different pairs of running shoes. I was told directly to take off my shoes or I would definitely get a secondary search. My soles are 1 inch at the heel. I refused and went to secondary.
In secondary, I was not asked to remove my shoes! They were wanded, and had no metal in them. They were not "swabbed" either! So the shoes were just an excuse for a power trip on his part.
After finding no metal on me, they insisted on giving me a "pat down". I am a slim male, wearing a non-bulky shirt. My understanding was that they were not supposed to be patting down individuals without some reason.
I have never seen a "shoe tester" at BWI... I'll look for it.
If I had to guess, I'll bet it's designed to light a red light when
any shoe is placed on it.
