Airport Security Overview

31.10.25

Safety comes first at Launceston Airport

At Launceston Airport, we’re here to make your journey as smooth and stress-free as possible. 

Keeping everyone safe is our top priority, and we follow strict security standards set by the Australian Government. Below is a quick guide to help you understand the key security measures in place — so you know exactly what to expect.

Safety is serious

Please avoid making any comments or jokes about carrying weapons or explosives while at the airport — even in jest. These types of remarks are taken seriously and may result in denied boarding and legal consequences.

Security Made Simple

We know navigating airport security can feel daunting, so we've broken things down to make it easier. Here's what you can expect.

What to expect at the passenger screening point

Australian Government regulations specify that everyone entering the secure areas of the terminal — including passengers, those accompanying them to the gate, airline crew, and airport staff — will go through a security screening process.

While you have the right to decline any screening process, please be aware that without undergoing this screening, you will not be permitted to proceed to the boarding gate or board your flight.

Thanks to recent upgrades, our screening technology is now faster, safer, and more efficient than ever. With advanced body scanners and CT x-ray machines, your screening experience is smoother while keeping security standards high.

Watch the video for how to prepare for screening or review the prompts below.

  • Empty your pockets and remove coats, belts, hats, and jewelry
  • Put wallets and personal items inside your carry-on and into a tray
  • Keep laptops inside your bag — no need to remove them anymore (unless you are carrying more than one laptop)
  • Let us know about any medical devices or implants before being screened
  • Follow the guidance of our friendly staff — they’re here to help!

You might need to go through the security screening process again until you are cleared. 

More information on the passenger screening process can be found on the Department of Home Affairs website Security screening at airports

Travelling with Children

All travellers, including little ones, need to pass through security. If your child can’t walk, you’re welcome to carry them through. Prams and strollers will be screened like other bags — and just a heads up, some airlines don’t allow them in the cabin, so it’s a good idea to check with your airline before you travel.

Travellers requiring special assistance

We have a special assistance lane for travellers who need a little extra help — including people with mobility aids, or anyone requiring additional support. Security staff in these lanes are trained to make the experience calm and comfortable.

If you have a mobility aid, such as a cane, crutches or wheelchair, and cannot hold the required poses for the body scanner, the screening officer will carry out security screening using other methods.

People with Medicines, medical devices/equipment, mobility aids, prosthetics

A letter or medical ID card from your doctor listing your medicines, medical device, or equipment may help speed up the security screening process.

If you are travelling with hypodermic needles, you must carry evidence, such as a letter from your doctor, showing they are medically necessary for you or someone in your care.

We strongly recommend carrying evidence for other medical items. This could be a letter from your doctor listing any prescription and non-prescription powders, liquids, aerosols or gels (such as ice or gel packs used to regulate temperatures).

We recommend asking your doctor or checking the manufacturer instructions to see if your medical device or equipment is suitable for security screening by these devices:

  • body scanner (used to screen people)
  • X-ray technology (used to screen baggage and personal effects).

Body scanners in Australia use non-ionising millimetre wave technology, similar to a mobile phone, not X-ray technology. Body scanners in Australia do not pose any known health risks.

Screening officers will have the final say on the amount of medication permitted.

Tell the security officer before screening if your medical device or equipment cannot go through a body scanner, walk-through metal detector, or X-ray. Have your medication, medical devices or equipment, and supporting evidence, such as a letter from your doctor, ready to show at the start of security screening process.

If you are carrying hypodermic needles, show them and the evidence, such as a letter from your doctor at the security screening points and to the cabin crew when boarding.

For further information visit People with special circumstances

Body Scanners & Privacy

Our scanners use gentle, non-ionising waves — safer than your everyday mobile phone. The millimetre-waves are reflected off the surface of the skin and do not penetrate the body. 

There are no known health risks from undergoing a scan. Travellers who have a medical condition should discuss this with your medical professional before travelling as we are required by government regulations to body scan all travellers. 

And rest assured, your privacy is fully protected: the scanner displays only a generic stick figure, with no personal images stored or shared.

If body scanner alarms go off during screening, passengers will be subject to further screening before being cleared for travel. This may include the removal of outer garments, including headwear or footwear.  It may also require a physical pat down which will be conducted in the screening area unless you request a private location.

Visit the Travelsecure website for information about body scanners.

Carry-On Baggage Tips

Security checks are in place to make flying safer for everyone. Your carry-on bags will be screened, and some items are not allowed onboard. 

If the Xray identifies something that may be prohibited, your hand baggage will undergo a physical check before being released.

For details on restricted items, visit the TravelSECURE website.

We’re here to make every part of your visit safe, simple, and welcoming. Have questions or need assistance? Just ask — we’re always happy to help!