Do you know about – passing through airport security?

In this “Do you Know about…” series of posts, we will explore what you can – and cannot – do if you have a Cochlear Implant.  The answer is that you can do pretty much everything but sometimes a few precautions are required.  Knowledge is power.

Are you nervous about going through airport security?  Here are some things you might like to know.

Wear your device. You can wear your processor whilst passing through security.  You need to do this so that you can hear any instructions you are given.

What to expect. The metal detectors and body scanners use electromagnetic fields or radio waves.  You may experience a distorted sound sensation or crackling when passing through or being near the scanners.  You can resolve this by turning off the sound processor around these machines.  The scanners will not harm the implant system but the metal detector will detect it. 

Carry your ID. You should have your Cochlear Implant ID Card with you.  You can order this from your manufacturer and these are available in many other languages.  The Auditory Implant Service may have the one you need.  Show this to the security office if questions are asked.

Ask for a pat-down. You can ask for a pat-down and a visual inspection of the processor instead of going through any of the scanners.

Avoid the conveyor belt. If you take your processor off – or carry a spare – do not put it directly onto the conveyor belt.  This is because of the possibility of static electricity.  Keep your processor in your carry on bag.

Pack gear in carry on. Keep any spare processors and equipment with you in a carry on bag.  Do not put them in with the hold luggage.  Stronger X-rays are used to scan suitcases.

During the flight. You can keep your processor on during the flight.