Airports and Film: the good and the bad

[Nitesail]

It might be handy to host this info in a google sheet or something to save users scrolling if it gets to big!

Good idea

[nitroplait]

Mostly I don't find it worth the hassel to request hand inspection where the classic X-ray machines are deployed. I have routinely traveled with 400 ISO and below with multiple passes both out and home without ill effect.

One can always put the film in a Domke lead bag to reduce exposure. It will likely be extracted for hand inspection post X-ray because the machine cannot see through it.

It is fortunately easy to spot a CT scanner and I have so far never experienced refusal to hand inspect where CT scanners were deployed in EU and Asia.

Recently in Helsinki, I was requested to separate my mechanical cameras as electronics. When the young inspector heard me mention it was film cameras she politely suggested hand inspection of cameras and film. First time I have experienced security proactively suggesting hand inspection.
In Japan I just wave the transparent zipp-lock bag with film and security knows what to do without me even having to ask.

[NER]

From the Ilford website (https://www.ilfordphoto.com/faqs/):

ADVICE FOR AIRPORT X-RAY SCANNERS: FILM & PAPERS
We are working with the DFT and Heathrow airport in the UK and will shortly be updating our information relating to the new CT type x-ray scanners being installed at major airports worldwide.
Based on our initial testing it is almost certain the new CT type x-ray scanners for cabin baggage will be deemed unsafe for any of our ILFORD and KENTMERE film products irrespective of ISO speed rating.
You must therefore ask for hand inspection of your films if the airport is using one of the new type scanners. We will be issuing more specific advice as we complete our testing and evaluation.
HOW TO IDENTIFY THE CT TYPE X-RAY SCANNERS
The following machines are currently on the market;
Smiths – CTIX
L3 – Clearscan
Rapiscan - 920CT / Connect CT
IDSS - Detect 1000
Nuctech - Kylin
Analogic Cobra

N. Riley
https://normanrileyphotography.com