TSA Says Excessive Sweating Can Trigger Extra Security Checks at U.S. Airports

Airport security can be stressful, especially during summer travel. But according to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), excessive sweating may now lead to additional screening at U.S. airports.

As heat waves continue across the United States, travelers are more likely to arrive at checkpoints perspiring. TSA officials say that visible sweat can interfere with Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) scanners, potentially triggering alarms and requiring further inspection.

“Added moisture from a person’s body can alter the density of clothing, so it is possible perspiration may cause our Advanced Imaging Technology machines to alarm,” a TSA spokesperson told CNN. “If this occurs, the passenger may need to undergo additional screening, such as a pat-down in the area of the body where the machine alarmed, to ensure there is no threat”.

This means passengers who are visibly sweating—especially in areas like the underarms or lower torso—could be pulled aside for wand screening or manual pat-downs. While these procedures are routine, they can add time and discomfort to the travel experience.

In a move to streamline airport security, the TSA recently announced that travelers will no longer be required to remove their shoes during screening. The change is part of a broader effort by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to modernize airport procedures.

“Ending the ‘Shoes-Off’ policy is the latest effort DHS is implementing to modernize and enhance traveler experience across our nation’s airports,” said DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. “We expect this change will drastically decrease passenger wait times at our TSA checkpoints, leading to a more pleasant and efficient passenger experience”.

Noem also hinted at future changes to liquid restrictions, questioning the current 3.4-ounce limit for carry-on items. However, TSA officials say it may be years before larger liquids are allowed through security. For now, travelers must continue to follow the 3-1-1 rule: liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less and placed in a quart-sized resealable bag.

Passengers enrolled in TSA PreCheck are still subject to the liquid limit but are not required to remove items from their bags during screening. They were also exempt from the shoes-off policy even before the new rule took effect.

As summer travel heats up, experts recommend wearing breathable clothing, staying hydrated, and arriving early to avoid stress-induced sweating that could complicate the screening process.


Related News: https://airguide.info/?s=TSA, https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/travel-health-security/

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, yahoo.com