Key Takeaways
• Sweat triggers TSA millimeter-wave scanners, causing extra pat-down screenings since July 5, 2025.
• TSA officers offer private screening upon flagging due to sweat-related scan anomalies at airports.
• New scanner technology testing aims to reduce false alarms caused by sweat and moisture.
Sweating at Airport Security: Why TSA Scanners Flag Travelers and What You Can Do
As of July 5, 2025, travelers passing through airport security checkpoints in the United States 🇺🇸 face a new and sometimes surprising challenge: sweating can trigger alarms on TSA scanners, leading to extra screening. This issue has become especially common during the hot summer months and in areas with high humidity. People who naturally sweat more, or who are anxious about flying, may find themselves flagged for additional checks even when they are not carrying anything dangerous.
This development has raised questions and concerns for many travelers. Why does sweat set off TSA scanners? What happens if you are flagged? Are there ways to avoid this problem? Here’s what you need to know about sweating, TSA scanners, and how to make your airport experience smoother.
What’s Happening at Airport Security Checkpoints?
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) uses advanced imaging technology (AIT) scanners at most airport security checkpoints in the United States 🇺🇸. These machines, often called millimeter-wave scanners, are designed to spot objects hidden under clothing by looking for changes in the way clothing fits or moves. They can find both metal and non-metal items, which makes them more effective than the old metal detectors.
However, these scanners are also sensitive to moisture. When you sweat, the moisture on your skin or clothes can change the way the scanner reads your body. This can make it look like you have something hidden, even when you don’t. As a result, the scanner may flag you for further inspection.
Who is affected?
Anyone who is visibly sweating—whether from heat, stress, or a medical condition—can be flagged by TSA scanners. This is especially common in the summer, in hot or humid regions, or for people who naturally sweat more than others.
What happens if you are flagged?
If the scanner detects an “anomaly” that could be caused by sweat, TSA officers will ask you to step aside for a manual pat-down. This is a physical search where an officer checks the area that set off the alarm. You have the right to ask for this search to be done in a private room if you prefer.
Why is this happening now?
The issue has become more noticeable in 2025 because the TSA has expanded its use of millimeter-wave scanners and improved their sensitivity. While these changes help catch real threats, they also make it more likely that harmless things like sweat will trigger alarms.
How TSA Scanners Work—and Why Sweat Matters
Millimeter-wave scanners use radio waves to create a picture of the body and detect anything unusual under clothing. They are very good at finding both metal and non-metal items, which is why they replaced older metal detectors after the September 11 attacks.
But these scanners also pick up on changes in the density of clothing or the body. Sweat, which is just water, can change how the scanner sees your clothes. If you have sweat stains on your chest, back, or groin, the scanner may think there is something hidden there.
TSA spokesperson R. Carter Langston explained that the scanners are designed to find a wide range of threats, but they can also be triggered by non-threatening things like sweat. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, this is a known issue that affects many travelers, especially during the summer.
Recent Incidents and Traveler Experiences
In June and July 2025, there have been many reports from travelers who were flagged by TSA scanners because of sweat. Some people shared their stories on social media, describing how they were pulled aside for a pat-down even though they had nothing suspicious on them.
Most travelers say the process is quick and handled professionally by TSA agents. Shawna Malvini Redden, author of 101 Pat-Downs, says these incidents are common and usually not a cause for alarm. The extra screening usually takes just a few minutes, unless something truly suspicious is found.
Still, some people feel embarrassed or frustrated by the experience. It can be uncomfortable to be singled out in front of other travelers, especially when you know you haven’t done anything wrong.
What to Expect During a Pat-Down
If you are flagged by a TSA scanner because of sweating, here’s what will happen:
- A TSA officer will explain why you were selected for extra screening.
- You will be asked if you want the pat-down done in public or in a private room.
- The officer will use the back of their hands to check the area that set off the alarm.
- The process usually takes just a few minutes.
- If nothing is found, you will be allowed to continue on your way.
You have the right to ask for a private screening at any time. You can also ask for a witness to be present, or request that the officer be the same gender as you.
Tips to Minimize the Risk of Being Flagged
While you can’t always control how much you sweat, there are some steps you can take to lower the chances of being flagged by TSA scanners:
- Wear light, breathable clothing. Avoid heavy fabrics or multiple layers, which can trap moisture.
- Stay dry before entering the scanner area. If possible, use a restroom to freshen up or wipe away sweat before you reach security.
- Remove items that hold moisture. Things like compression shorts, pads, or liners can keep sweat close to your skin and increase the chance of being flagged.
- Avoid rushing. Give yourself plenty of time to get through security so you don’t arrive hot and sweaty from running to your gate.
- Be aware of other triggers. Items like wigs, turbans, and certain hairstyles can also set off scanners because of their density or moisture content.
If you know you are likely to sweat, consider packing an extra shirt in your carry-on bag so you can change before going through security.
TSA’s Response and Technology Improvements
The TSA is aware that sweating can cause false alarms on their scanners. They have confirmed that excess moisture is a known trigger, and they are working on ways to reduce the number of false positives.
Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) Expansion:
In 2025, the TSA has continued to roll out new and improved AIT scanners. These machines are better at finding both metal and non-metal threats, but they are also more sensitive to things like sweat and certain types of clothing.
Real-Time AIT:
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and TSA are testing next-generation scanners that can process images in real time. These new systems may be able to tell the difference between sweat and real threats, which could mean fewer pat-downs in the future. However, these scanners are still being tested and are not yet available at most airports.
Facial Recognition Pilot Programs:
Some airports are also testing facial recognition systems that let certain travelers skip manual ID checks. While this makes the process faster, it does not affect the body scanning step.
REAL ID Enforcement:
As of May 7, 2025, all travelers 18 and older must show a REAL ID-compliant form of identification at TSA checkpoints. This is a separate requirement from the body scanner process, but it’s important to be prepared.
Background: Why Did TSA Switch to Millimeter-Wave Scanners?
After the September 11 attacks, airport security in the United States 🇺🇸 changed dramatically. The old metal detectors were good at finding metal objects, but they could not spot non-metal threats like plastic explosives. Millimeter-wave scanners were introduced to solve this problem.
These scanners use safe radio waves to create a picture of the body and look for anything unusual. Early versions of the scanners were even more likely to be set off by sweat, buttons, or folds in clothing. Over time, the technology has improved, but moisture is still a common cause of false alarms.
According to past studies, up to 39% of false alarms were caused by sweat, buttons, or clothing folds. While the rate has gone down, sweat remains a known issue.
Implications for Different Groups
Travelers:
Anyone passing through airport security in the United States 🇺🇸 can be affected, especially during hot weather or if they are nervous about flying. People with medical conditions that cause sweating may be more likely to be flagged.
TSA Officers:
TSA agents are trained to handle these situations professionally. They know that sweat can cause false alarms and are expected to treat travelers with respect during extra screening.
Airlines:
Delays at security checkpoints can affect flight schedules, especially during busy travel times. Airlines may advise passengers to arrive early to allow extra time for security checks.
People with Disabilities or Medical Conditions:
If you have a medical condition that causes sweating, you can let the TSA officer know. You may also want to carry a doctor’s note or use the TSA Cares program, which offers extra help for travelers with medical needs.
Looking Ahead: Will Technology Solve the Problem?
The TSA and DHS are working on new scanners that may be better at telling the difference between sweat and real threats. These next-generation machines are still being tested, but the hope is that they will reduce the number of false alarms and make the process smoother for everyone.
Demonstrations and operational assessments of these new systems are ongoing. If the tests go well, the new scanners could be rolled out to airports across the United States 🇺🇸 in the next few years.
For now, travelers should be aware of the issue and take simple steps to reduce the risk of being flagged.
What to Do If You Have a Problem or Complaint
If you feel you were treated unfairly during a TSA screening, or if you want to report a problem, you can contact the TSA directly. The TSA’s official website has information on how to file a complaint or ask for help. You can also reach out to consumer advocacy groups for support.
For the latest travel tips and security updates, visit the TSA’s official website.
Summary Table: Sweating and TSA Scanners (2025)
| Issue | Current Status (2025) | Practical Effect | Mitigation/Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sweat triggers scanner alarm | Confirmed by TSA, widespread reports | Brief manual pat-down required | Wear light clothing, stay dry |
| Technology improvements | Real-time AIT in testing phase | Not yet widely deployed | Watch for future updates |
| Policy changes | No change to pat-down protocol | Private screening available | Request privacy if needed |
| Stakeholder perspectives | TSA, experts, travelers all aware | Seen as minor inconvenience | Professional handling by agents |
Key Takeaways and Practical Guidance
- Sweating at airport security checkpoints can trigger TSA scanners, leading to extra screening.
- The process is usually quick and handled with professionalism.
- You can reduce your chances of being flagged by wearing light clothing and staying as dry as possible.
- If you are flagged, you have the right to ask for a private screening.
- The TSA is working on better technology, but for now, travelers should be prepared for the possibility of a pat-down.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, sweat remains a common cause of false alarms at airport security, but the inconvenience is usually minor compared to the safety benefits. By understanding the process and knowing your rights, you can make your airport experience less stressful and more predictable.
If you have questions or concerns about TSA scanners, sweating, or airport security checkpoints, check the TSA’s official resources or speak to a TSA officer at the airport. Staying informed and prepared is the best way to ensure a smooth journey.
Learn Today
TSA → Transportation Security Administration, U.S. agency responsible for airport security screening and traveler safety.
Millimeter-wave scanners → Security machines using radio waves to detect hidden objects under clothing at checkpoints.
Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) → Security technology that creates body images to identify concealed threats during airport screening.
Pat-down → Manual physical search by TSA officers when scanners detect potential hidden items requiring verification.
REAL ID → A federal compliant identification required by TSA from travelers 18+ to pass airport security checks.
This Article in a Nutshell
Sweat often triggers TSA airport scanners, leading to extra security checks. Travelers face brief pat-downs, with rights to privacy. Wear breathable clothing and stay dry to reduce alarms. TSA is improving scanner technology to distinguish sweat from threats. Understanding this helps ease travel stresses at checkpoints nationwide.
— By VisaVerge.com
