Travellers at Gatwick Airport have been warned that their new state-of-the-art CT scanners are mistaking common food items for dangerous objects. The scanners, installed in March as part of a multi-million-pound project to reduce security wait times, have been flagging apples as potential threats.
In July, a British journalist reported that security staff at Gatwick's North Terminal asked passengers if they were carrying fruit in their cabin bags. The journalist was told his apple had triggered the scanner, with the explanation: 'The scanner doesn't like apples.'
This is not the first glitch with the new technology. Last September, children's medicines such as Calpol and liquid Nurofen were also rejected by the scanners, causing delays for families. Although these medicines are legal to take through security, the software failed to recognise them as everyday items.
The CT scanners, which create 3D images of luggage to detect explosives, were intended to end the 100ml liquid limit by June 2024. However, larger airports like Gatwick have struggled to meet the deadline due to post-COVID supply chain issues and construction needs.
Passengers are advised to be aware that items like apples and liquid medicines may trigger additional security checks, potentially causing delays.
