Security Screening Tenerife South Airport
Who needs to undergo security screening at Tenerife South Airport and what happens in the process?
Passengers’ security screening
All passengers departing on a flight from Tenerife South Airport need to go through security screening. You will need to clear security to get from the public zone, or “landside” of the airport to the passengers-only zone, also called “airside”. In the process, you are required to pass through the airport’s metal detector. You may also be scanned with a smaller handheld metal detector (wand).
Metal detectors at Tenerife South Airport
The metal detector which you pass through is not an x-ray machine. Metal detectors are designed to identify any weapons or items which may be used as an offensive weapon. They emit a low-frequency magnetic field and are considered safe for pregnant women, babies, and young children. This also applies to the handheld metal detectors (wands) that security personnel use.
Body scanners
Full-body scanners are not in use at Tenerife South Airport.
Pacemakers
If you have a pacemaker or an ICD it is best to inform airport security before passing through. If a handheld metal detector (wand), is necessary, ask them not to hold the metal detector near the device or ask for an alternative form of personal search. Walk through any security system at a normal pace. You should always carry with you your device identification or card.
Most pacemakers and ICD’s will not be affected by interference but they may trigger the security alarm. If you have a unique implant or doubts about the metal detector due to the age of your pacemaker, it is best to consult your doctor before travelling. If you have any concerns contact the MHRA who will be able to answer any questions you have relating to your pacemaker or ICD.
Hand luggage screening at Tenerife South Airport
All hand luggage at Tenerife South Airport is required to pass through an x-ray machine. All items which you are carrying on board, including any food, electronic devices, photographic film, etc must pass through the x-ray machines. The x-ray scanners produce lower power x-rays than the hold luggage scanners which are used at Tenerife South Airport.
The x-ray beams are purely directed at the luggage passing through the machine. The machines have internal shields to stop radiation leakage. All hand luggage, including camera films, electronic devices, and food items such as baby food or milk are not affected, nor do they contain any residual radiation.
For more information on the types of items that can be carried in your hand luggage, please also see our page EU cabin regulations.
Hold luggage screening
The items of luggage which go in the hold of the aircraft will pass through an x-ray machine. The x-ray scanner used for all luggage placed in the hold is much higher and any camera film should be kept in your hand luggage to avoid damage to photographic film.