Secrets Airport Workers Don’t Tell Ordinary Passengers About

Many of us wish we could rush through airports without the many security checks and formalities.

And due to the stressful nature of airports, most of us don’t take the time to know what goes on in them or what the numerous airport workers are up to.

For instance, did you know that the security workers will most probably invite you for an additional security check if you have big, fancy-looking hair?

And did you know that 40% of injuries among airport workers come from handling and lifting? This is why you might need to take a manual handling training online or physical course if you have plans to work in an airport.

Want to learn more about airport secrets? Scroll on and learn before you fly away.

Security and Safety Secrets

Here are a few airport security details that might surprise you.

• Security personnel at airports have to undergo immense training. For the screening agents to successfully screen so many people every day, they have to undergo advanced security and X-ray technology training
• Some airports have profilers trained to detect suspicious body language and behavior that dangerous travelers often exhibit.
• Airport employees also use questions as part of behavioral checks to detect suspicious travelers. So, it would be best if you answer these questions as calmly as possible. Besides, that chatty security officer is probably screening you, too.
• If you don’t want to attract the attention of security personnel at the airport, don’t act nervous if your flight is delayed. Further, don’t have too many bobby pins or metal necklaces and bangles. People with fancy hairdos, loose pants with numerous pockets, and long skirts and dresses are also likely to be profiled for additional security checks

Banned Products and Baggage

If you have ever left a product at the airport because it exceeded the weight limit, you may have wondered where it went. Well, we have the answers for you.

• If a product is taken from you because it’s banned or over the limit, don’t expect that you’ll get it back. The security personnel decides what to do with it. Some of these products are disposed of, while others are sold at auctions
• The most suspicious-looking bags are not scanned once, but are checked numerous times. They are scanned using various devices, including an introscope, computed tomography imaging, physical checks by humans, and diffraction machines
• If you have coffee in your bag, you may attract an additional security check as this is the commonest way of trying to conceal the smell of banned products
• Baggage movers hate bags full of stuff since once these bags are opened, the movers need to close them back. To avoid inconveniencing the movers, pack your luggage in two light bags rather than one heavy bag.
• Most luggage gets lost in the airports due to late arrival. It takes more time for your luggage to be checked, and your bags may end up in a different plane than the one you’re in.

Airport Animals

Here are a few secrets about animals that work at airports

• The dogs that work at airports are not your typical Buddy or Max. These specially trained dogs work in what is probably the most stressful service condition. Airports are characterized by lots of noises, lots of smells, not to mention many people. These conditions aren’t very conducive for canines to work in. But not to worry, as these dogs go through rigorous military training, making it easier for them to detect drugs and other smuggled harmful products despite the chaotic working conditions.
• Although most of us imagine German shepherds as the most preferred airport undercover dogs, the trend is changing. Security personnel are choosing to use less vicious dog breeds. The use of the less menacing dogs makes it harder to attract the suspicion of a dangerous traveler as these dogs often use their body language rather than snarls to let their handlers know of a threat.
• Airport canine prizes and treats aren’t snuggles or body rubs. Handlers have to keep an emotional distance from their canines. So, no hugs and snuggles from the officers when the dogs do a good job. The canines are rewarded with their favorite toys and plastic bones.

Next time you’re at the airport, make sure you pay attention to the little details. You might notice some of the secrets mentioned here or learn some new ones.

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