When will hold baggage screening be introduced?

The new screening process is being introduced progressively at all international airports in New Zealand. Some airports started full screening in September, and others will have full screening by the end of November. All international airports must have the procedures in place by 1 January 2006.

Why are all bags now being screened?

New Zealand is complying with International Civil Aviation Organisation standards that state outbound international flights must have all passenger baggage – not just carry-on baggage – screened for explosives and other dangerous devices. The new rules are aimed at ensuring air travel is safe from terrorist threat.

Who will check the bags?

Trained personnel from New Zealand’s Aviation Security Service will screen all bags. They are the same people who security screen you and your carry-on baggage at airport screening stations.

How will they be checked?

Hold baggage will go through sophisticated X-ray screening equipment that can detect explosive materials and other dangerous items. The machines are operated by Avsec staff. Specially trained explosive detector dogs will also assist in the screening process. Screening will not damage any of your belongings (see film below).

Haven’t my checked bags always been screened?

Not everyone’s. Until now, flights to some destinations have had all baggage screened and other flights have been screened at random. To comply with international aviation standards, all bags will be security screened as of 1 January 2006.

Will my bags also be checked on domestic flights?

Some will. In some airports where the domestic baggage and international baggage travel on the same baggage belt, the domestic bags will be screened along with the international bags.

Will this mean I have to arrive at the airport even earlier?

No. The Aviation Security Service is using a hi-tech system that means baggage is likely to reach your plane without any extra delay. You will not need to arrive at the airport any earlier because of the new procedures. However, it always pays to check with your travel agent or airline about when you should arrive.

What difference will I notice when I check in?

You will notice little difference. At some airports, you will see your hold baggage screened near the check-in counter; at others the screening will be done unseen in separate areas “out the back”. Either way, in the vast number of cases, your baggage will move smoothly through screening process and out to your plane. By the end of 2006 all airports will be screening in the “out the back” areas.

What happens if something suspicious is found in my baggage?

If Aviation Security Service officers find something of concern you will be paged and the bags will be opened and examined in your presence. This will happen in the secure area and generally after you have been through the Aviation Security Service security point where your hand luggage is checked. It is advisable that you go through the Aviation Security Service security point as early as possible after check-in so you can be found quickly if there is a problem with your hold baggage. Bags will not be loaded on the plane until they have been cleared. You might be responsible for delays to the flight, and, depending on the item found, you could be convicted of an offence.

Is this happening everywhere else in the world?

All 189 member countries of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (including New Zealand) are required to have 100 per cent hold bags screened by 1 January 2006. All countries have strict aviation security measures in place, but practices vary depending on local conditions and laws. Some countries are currently screening 100 per cent hold baggage while others are screening a percentage of them like New Zealand. New Zealand’s procedures meet or exceed all local and international aviation security rules.

What penalties are there?

If your bags contain an explosive item you will most likely be detained and charged. You could be liable to a term of imprisonment for up to five years. You will almost certainly miss your flight.

Does this screening affect film, laptops and other electronic equipment?

Screening does not harm laptops or other electronic equipment. It is also safe for two screenings of photographic film up to1600asa. Film of any faster speed is usually used only by professional photographers – the 100, 200 or 400 asa films used by holidaymakers is safe to go through screening.

Am I paying for this out of my ticket cost?

All core aviation security functions conducted by the Aviation Security Service are paid for via a government charge on airlines, based on the number of departing passengers. Core aviation security services include the screening of your hold baggage. From 1 October 2005 this charge will be $8.31 per departing international passenger. It is up to your airline whether it includes this charge in your airline ticket.

Where to go for further information

If you are not sure whether you are allowed to take something on an aircraft, please always check first. Further information is available from:

Your travel agent

Your airline

Avsec