If you’re leaving on a jet plane, you need to be prepared for American airport security. Learn more in this episode.
Slow dialog: 1:16
Explanations: 3:49
Fast dialog: 18:49
Roland: Why are you so nervous about flying?
Natalie: I’m not nervous about being in the air. It’s going through security. I hear it’s a hassle and I don’t want to end up being strip-searched.
Roland: You won’t be strip-searched. All you need to do is to follow a few simple rules. When you get to security screening, put your carry-on bag and all metal objects in a bin so that it can go through the scanner.
Natalie: But I heard I couldn’t bring any liquids with me.
Roland: You’re only allowed three ounces of liquids, aerosols, or gels. Those should go inside a zip-top bag and be placed in a bin.
Natalie: Do I have to take off my shoes and get one of those body scans?
Roland: You don’t have to take off your shoes, but you do have to get a body scan.
Natalie: I knew it! They’re going to bombard me with harmful rays. And you wonder why I’m nervous about flying!
Roland: You won’t be bombarded with any harmful rays. You walk through the metal detector and stand in front of the scanner. It’s not dangerous.
Natalie: Oh, why do they have to treat every passenger like a potential hijacker or terrorist? Do I look like a terrorist? I feel like walking through security with my hands up saying, “I am not a terrorist. I am not a terrorist.”
Roland: I wouldn’t do that if I were you. That’s a sure way to get the TSA’s attention. Just stay calm and follow the instructions.
Natalie: Just like a lamb to the slaughter?

Script by Dr. Lucy Tse