I have some good news as a direct result of our campaign! An Information Note has been issued today to all UK Airports. Please read the below letter from the Policy Manager of the Airport Operators Association (AOA), which is a trade association representing the interests of UK airports, and the principal such body engaging with the UK government and regulatory authorities on airport matters. The AOA’s members include over 50 airports and more than 150 Associate Members. See www.aoa.org.uk for more details. “Dear Rachel, I am pleased to inform you that an Information Note has been issued today to UK Airports following a number of queries received recently regarding alternative screening processes for passengers who do not wish to be screened by Security Scanner or a Walk Through Metal Detector. This relates in particular to those passengers with medical conditions, such as an implanted medical device (Insulin Pump, Heart Monitor, Cochlear Implant). Whilst the Information Note itself cannot be replicated to the public, the following points address concerns that have been raised: - Although government medical advice is that screening by security scanners pose no known health and safety risks and are safe for passengers with such medical devices, manufacturers and medical opinion can differ. This can lead to passengers believing that the security scanner may have an adverse effect on their particular device - Airports are aware that a passenger should not be asked to remove a medical device, such as an insulin pump, for screening, and that all passengers having a hand search in private may have a travelling companion with them if they wish. - In addition, passengers may be carrying certain spare medical devices in their cabin baggage that they do not wish to be screened by x-ray, due to concern over the effects of x-ray technology. In these circumstances, (and where medical confirmation is provided) the regulations allow for items of cabin baggage to be screened by hand search, supported by Trace Detection. Finally I advise that passengers affected should speak to security personnel at the screening point to advise of any medical screening requirements and ensure that they carry medical confirmation from their practitioner so that screening may be undertaken accordingly. Following the issue of today’s Information Note, any negative experiences should be taken up directly with the airport operator concerned. Kind Regards, Peter O’Broin Policy Manager Airport Operators Association”