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Why Do Travelers Still Have to Remove Their Laptops and Place Them Separately on a Tray?

YEET MAGAZINE

• 4 min read

The Frustrating Airport Ritual

By YEET MAGAZINE | Published February 17, 2025, at 1:00 PM (GMT) | Updated February 17, 2025, at 9:00 PM (GMT)

The first time I went through airport security with my laptop, I had no idea it needed to be placed in a separate tray. Balancing my boarding pass, carry-on, and a forgotten water bottle, I was caught off guard when the agent casually said, "Laptop out, separate tray." I hesitated but followed their instructions, wondering if all this effort was really necessary. After all, shouldn't the X-ray machine be able to see through everything in my bag?

Why Can't Scanners Just See Through Bags?

The Challenge with Electronics

X-ray machines are designed to scan luggage, but they struggle when it comes to electronics. Devices like laptops and tablets are dense, packed with metal, circuit boards, and batteries. When left inside a bag, these gadgets create blind spots that can make it difficult for security officers to spot anything suspicious. That’s why they need to be placed in a separate tray.

The History Behind the Rule

A Response to Tragedy

The rule of separating electronics dates back to heightened security measures after the 1988 bombing of Pan Am Flight 103. An explosive was concealed inside a radio cassette player, and since then, electronic devices have been scrutinized more closely. Requiring travelers to take them out and place them in separate trays helps ensure that security officers have a clear view of these items and can check for any hidden threats.

The Future of Airport Security

Advancements in Technology

While the rule may feel outdated, some airports are already making strides toward more advanced scanning technology. For instance, Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam uses cutting-edge CT scanners that allow passengers to leave their electronics in their bags. However, until these scanners become more widespread, the separate tray rule remains in place at most airports.

A Small Step for Smoother Travel

Why It's Worth the Effort

Though it may seem like a minor inconvenience, following the separate tray rule helps ensure a safer and more efficient security process. So, next time you’re at the checkpoint, remember to take your laptop out, place it in its own tray, and keep things moving. It's a small step that plays a big part in keeping air travel safe.