Airport Scanners: Safe or Scary? The Truth for Malta Travellers

Standing in line at Malta International Airport, you’re next in the queue for the dreaded security scanner. You’ve heard the whispers, the debates: are these machines really safe? Or are they secretly zapping us with harmful radiation? Let’s debunk this myth once and for all, Malta-style.

The Fear Factor: Radiation and Cancer

Let’s address the elephant in the room. Airport scanners use X-rays, a type of radiation, to see through your clothes and detect any hidden contraband. The fear is that this radiation exposure could lead to an increased risk of cancer. But is this fear justified?

Malta’s own Dr. Joseph Cuschieri, a radiation oncologist at Mater Dei Hospital, explains, “The radiation dose from airport scanners is extremely low, comparable to what you’d get from a few minutes of natural background radiation.” In other words, it’s practically negligible.

The Tech Behind the Scenes

Airport scanners use a type of X-ray machine called a backscatter scanner. Unlike medical X-rays, these scanners use low-energy X-rays that can’t penetrate deep into your body. Instead, they bounce off your skin and are detected by the machine. This means that only a tiny fraction of the radiation reaches your body, making it very safe.

these scanners are regularly maintained and calibrated to ensure they’re working within safe limits. Malta’s Civil Aviation Directorate ensures that all scanners at Malta International Airport comply with international safety standards.

Opting Out: The Walk-Through Alternative

If you’re still not convinced, you can always opt for the traditional metal detector and pat-down instead. The choice is yours. But remember, the walk-through metal detector also uses a type of low-frequency electromagnetic field, which is also safe.

Malta’s own travel blogger, Claire Borg of Flirting with the Globe, says, “I’ve always found the security process at Malta International Airport to be quick and efficient. I’ve never felt concerned about the scanners, knowing they’re safe and necessary for our security.”

The Bottom Line

So, are airport security scanners dangerous? The short answer is no. The radiation dose is extremely low, and the benefits of enhanced security far outweigh any potential risks. Next time you’re at Malta International Airport, you can go through the scanner with peace of mind.

Stay Informed, Stay Safe

While airport scanners are safe, it’s always a good idea to stay informed about any potential health risks. If you’re still concerned, you can always consult with a healthcare professional. After all, knowledge is power.