Standing in the security line at Malta International Airport, you might have felt that familiar flutter of anxiety as you approach the scanner. Are these machines really safe, or are we being exposed to harmful radiation with each scan?

It’s a question that’s been circulating for years, but let’s debunk this myth once and for all. We’ve spoken to local experts, looked into the technology used at Malta’s airports, and dug into the science behind it all.

Airport security scanners use two main types of technology: millimeter wave and backscatter X-ray. Both are used at Malta International Airport and Gozo Heliport, but let’s focus on the most common, millimeter wave.

Millimeter wave scanners emit low-power radio waves to create a 3D image of your body. They’re similar to the radar in your car, but with a much lower power output. In fact, they emit less radiation than a typical mobile phone.

One of the main concerns is that these scanners emit radiation, but that’s not entirely accurate. Millimeter wave scanners use non-ionizing radiation, which is different from the ionizing radiation emitted by X-rays. Non-ionizing radiation doesn’t have enough energy to dislodge electrons from atoms, making it harmless to human cells.

Dr. Joseph Galea, a physicist at the University of Malta, explains, “The energy levels are so low that they can’t cause any harm. It’s like comparing a gentle breeze to a hurricane. They’re both wind, but one is harmless while the other can cause destruction.”

Malta Civil Aviation Authority (MCAA) ensures that all security equipment used at Maltese airports complies with international safety standards. They regularly test and maintain the scanners to keep them within safe limits.

the European Commission’s Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENIHR) has concluded that millimeter wave scanners are safe for use, even for frequent flyers and children.

While the science is clear, some people still prefer to opt out of the scanner. At Malta’s airports, you can request a pat-down instead. This is done in a private area by a security officer of the same gender.

Remember, the purpose of these scanners is to enhance security, not to harm passengers. By understanding how they work, we can alleviate our fears and make our travel experiences smoother.