For those embarking on a lengthy flight or seeking non-screen-based amusement, carrying a deck of playing cards may seem like a good idea to combat boredom. However, this seemingly innocuous item can potentially lead to security concerns at airports, resulting in delays for additional inspections.
Various items are prohibited due to their sharp or hazardous nature, and even seemingly harmless objects like corkscrews can be confiscated. Additionally, certain innocent-looking items may trigger security alerts, necessitating further scrutiny.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA), responsible for airport security in the United States, cautioned that any deck of cards, whether traditional playing cards or specialty collections like Pokémon, could raise security concerns if scanners detect any suspicious characteristics despite their harmless appearance.
According to Ian Cava of the TSA, the shape of cards can trigger additional inspections, giving the impression that they may contain hidden items. He explained that tightly stacked items, such as decks of cards, binders, or graded slabs, can obscure X-ray images, making it challenging for officers to confirm the absence of prohibited items concealed within or around them.
Even popular family games like UNO can raise security alerts. A standard UNO deck, with 112 cards, is thicker than a regular 52-card deck, hindering X-ray operators’ ability to see through the stack and requiring manual inspections for potential illicit items.
While the advice primarily pertains to TSA regulations, travelers departing from UK airports can also adhere to similar guidelines given the comparable security protocols. A tightly packed deck can appear as a dense organic block on X-ray scanners, potentially triggering concerns of explosives, electronic devices, or dense liquids, necessitating further examinations.
Typically, a standard bag search takes around 15 minutes upon reaching the inspection table. However, during peak travel periods, the backlog of bags awaiting manual checks can significantly prolong the wait time.
Many UK airports are transitioning to advanced 3D scanning technology. Travelers passing through security lanes equipped with these modern machines often do not need to remove items from their bags, reducing false alarms. Nonetheless, as the rollout varies across different UK airports, some lanes still rely on older X-ray machines that mandate manual inspections for dense objects like cards and games.
To prevent delays, treat playing cards like any other item that requires separate screening. Place the card box in a tray for inspection rather than waiting for a security alert to be triggered.
Avoiding issues is possible by refraining from storing cards in metal tins or cases, often used for collectibles. Opt for cardboard or plastic cases instead, as metal tins can impede scanning processes.
Placing board games and cards in checked luggage is the safest way to prevent security delays, as they bypass manual bag inspections that can cause extended waits. Although this eliminates the risk of hand luggage being flagged for a card or game check, travelers run the potential of items being damaged, crushed, or lost in case of mishandling by airlines.