Film and Airport X-Ray

[J_Rae_A_Pex]

Leaving tomorrow and during last minute packing, the question of travelling through airport security with film came up. Where should we carry it so that it doesn't get ruined by the x-ray?? Thanks in advance, we are psyched!

 

[missymouse3367]

I would put it in a bag and ask the person at the x-ray to hand check it. My DH works @ the x-ray machine and says it will damage the film. Have agreat trip.

 

[GAIL HAYDEN]

This might prove to be interesting reading. I have yet to have a problem, however, I usually have it hand inspected if it is exposed. I used to check the unexposed film in my luggage, never had a problem. I primarily shot 400 and 800 speed film.
Now, I only use digital.

http://www.kodak.com/US/en/motion/support/technical/transportation.shtml

 

[missymouse3367]

I will tell you that they have increased the sensitivity in the xray machines. I also know that not every bag that is checkedis put through the xray machine, but that could soon change.

 

[GAIL HAYDEN]

I also know that not every bag that is checkedis put through the xray machine, but that could soon change.

Are you talking about carry ons or checked?

I will tell you that they have increased the sensitivity in the xray machines.

It is not sensitivity, it is strength. Using lead lined bags only causes the strength of the xray to be turned up and increases the chances of fogged film.
However, in the carry on lines, it has to be a VERY low dose because the people running the machines and the pax cannot tolerate a high dose of xray. It damages a human. And, the carry on scanners do check every bag. As is supposed to be the case with checked luggage.

 

[bananiem]

Here's what I did last week: I took all of the un-shot film out of the black canisters and put them and the camera in a big ziploc and handed it to them. They looked at it and handed it back. No big deal. They did ask if I had 800 or higher, which I did and they did say it would harm higher speeds.
On the way back I did the same thing except that all 18 rolls had been shot and they took each one out individually and rubbed a cloth over each one!
I'd hand it to them to search just to be safe.

 

[Ricola]

Just one thing to add... Xrays affect exposed and unexposed film THE SAME WAY. So if you value your photos, do not check either your exposed or unexposed film.

 

[kamgen]

I just flew out of LAX last night to Detroit. Just an update on film and THANK GOD the lady at the counter told us!
LAX has new machines that xray your CHECKED luggage. If you have film in those bags, no matter how it is packaged...it will get RUINED!!!!!!
The film in your carryon is fine....

I am not sure about other airports. My advice, put all film in carryons and ask before you let it go through the scanner...all airports are different!

Kamy