TSA screenings: What protections do you have?

“For passengers who use a wheelchair or scooter, the screening process depends on the level of mobility,” says Horowitz. If you can stand unaided for 10 seconds, you will be directed to the scanners, but have the same rights as any other passenger to opt out and receive a pat-down, she says. “Passengers who can neither walk nor stand are ineligible for advanced imaging technology screening and receive alternative screening using a pat-down procedure while passengers remain in the wheelchair. Regardless of the degree of mobility, passenger’s wheelchairs are thoroughly inspected and any removable items are required to undergo X-ray screening. As with all passengers, travelers with special needs, or their caregivers, can request private screening at any point during the screening process.”