Security Screening Palma Airport
Security screening is the point where travellers leave the “landside” (public area) and enter the “airside” (area with restricted access) of the airport. What happens at Palma Airport security screening?
Where is the security checkpoint at Palma Airport?
Security Screening at Palma Airport was moved from level 4 to level 2 of the main terminal building in November 2024. This was part of a larger renovation project with the intention of improving the passengers’ journey through the airport.
What do you need to do at security screening?
When you arrive at the security checkpoint, you will need to scan your boarding pass. For this, you can use either a printed or an electronic version of the document. Following this, you will need to place all of your hand luggage, as well any loose objects you might be carrying, e.g. hat, sunglasses, etc. on a tray, ready to pass through the x-ray machine. If you are wearing one, you will need to take off your jacket and possibly your shoes and place these on the tray together with the rest of your hand luggage.
What can you take through airport security?
You can take your hand luggage containing your personal belongings like clothing, electronics (such as laptops and phones), travel documents, as well as liquids (up to 100ml each).
Please note: The permissible size and weight of your hand luggage are determined by your airline and may also depend on the specific ticket you have purchased. Please check with your airline before travelling.
Which items cannot be taken through airport security?
Sharp objects, weapons, flammable items, and liquids over 100ml (unless exempt – please see below) are not allowed. Certain sporting goods, tools, or food items may also be restricted (please check which foods you are allowed to import to the country you are travelling to).
Possible exceptions to the liquid rules
Medication
Prescription and essential medications are allowed, even if over 100ml, but you may need to show a prescription or medical note. Keep them separate and declare them at the checkpoint.
Baby food
Baby food, milk and water are permitted in quantities greater than 100ml if needed for the journey. Be prepared for additional screening.
3D Scanners
These new hand luggage scanners are being introduced in many parts of the world and they have been in use at Palma Airport since November 2024. The great advantage of this new equipment is that electronics and liquids no longer have to be removed from your hand luggage, which speeds up the process and is much more convenient for passengers.
How does a 3D scanner work?
A 3D scanner uses computed tomography (CT) technology to capture cross-sectional images of the bag’s contents. These are then reconstructed by powerful software into a 3D model. Security staff view this model on a monitor. They can rotate and zoom into the image to closely inspect the contents without opening the bag. Different materials show up in different colours:
- Organics (e.g. food, explosives) typically appear orange
- Metals (e.g. tools, electronics) appear blue or green
- Mixed or dense materials show up in varying shades depending on density and atomic number
This colour coding helps staff quickly identify suspicious items. If they are unsure about some of the items they see on the monitor, they will ask you to look through your bag with your permission.
Metal detectors
While your belongings go through the 3D scanner, you will need to walk through a metal detector – an archway that looks much like a door frame. If the detector alarm goes off when passing through, you will be taken aside. You will be asked to double-check and remove any metal objects that triggered the alarm and you may be asked to walk through the detector a second time. If the alarm goes off again, you will be scanned with a handheld metal detector or body searched.
Frequently asked questions about airport metal detectors
How does a metal detector work?
Virtually all metal detectors used at airports are a type of pulse induction system. These pulse about 100 times per second and create a momentary magnetic field. When a metal body enters the metal detector this causes an opposite magnetic field. It works in a way similar to hearing echoes – the detector picks up these magnetic echoes and triggers the alarm.
Will I trigger the alarm if I have a hip replacement or other artificial joint?
Metal implants such as hip replacements can potentially trigger the alarm. Inform the security staff in advance – you may undergo a manual check or handheld scanner screening.
Do I need to take off my glasses or take out my hearing aid when going through the security screening?
No, you can usually keep on your glasses and hearing aids. If needed, security staff may ask for additional checks.
Will the airport security equipment interfere with my pacemaker?
Most modern pacemakers are not affected by metal detectors or scanners, but it’s important to inform staff so they can guide you through an alternative screening if necessary. Please ensure that you carry your pacemaker identification card with you.
Is a metal detector safe for pregnant women, babies and children?
Yes, metal detectors and security scanners are considered safe for pregnant women, infants and children. They may emit very low levels of radiation, however, these are lower than those you get from your mobile phone and therefore do not pose a danger.
Full-body scanners
Full-body scanners, which are being used in a lot of international airports in Europe and especially in the US, have not made their way to Palma Airport yet. The types of body scanners used in the UK do not create a high-resolution image of the body like the scanners used in the USA. They do make use of X-ray technology, albeit at very low power, which experts say is harmless. In comparison to this, any X-ray machines used in medical settings emit much higher radiation in order to penetrate soft tissues.
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