Security at Adelaide Airport
Everything you need to know about security screening
Your safety at Adelaide Airport is our top priority. We are required to adhere to the Australian Governments aviation security regulations and policies, which means that anyone going through to the secure zone of our terminals must go through the screening process.
This includes:
- All departing passengers, including children and infants
- Anyone accompanying passengers to the boarding gate
- Airline and airport staff
Whether you’re flying out or meeting someone at the gate, it’s important to know what to expect - and being prepared helps to make your journey through airport security as straightforward as possible. We encourage you to familiarise yourself with the screening process and check what you can and can’t bring onboard. Visit the Travel SECURE for more information.
Quick tips for a smooth security experience
1
Place all personal items, wallets or purses in your carry-on baggage and place in a tray. Please note that laptops, tablets, or aerosols can now remain in your carry-on baggage in domestic screening.
2
Place all items from your pockets in the tray e.g. metallic (keys, coins), electronic devices and handkerchiefs.
3
Remove bulky outer wear clothing (e.g. coats, jacket), hats and jewellery, and place them in the tray.
4
Inform our security team if you have any medical devices, aids or implants before being screened.
5
At the direction of security screening staff please proceed through the body scanner.
6
You may be asked to undergo additional screening processes if an issue is identified.
Everyone entering the secure areas of the terminal must undergo security screening. By proceeding through a screening point, you are legally consenting to the required screening procedures, except for a frisk search which will only be conducted with your explicit agreement. Due to policies and procedures, you can’t choose the screening method, they’re determined by security rules and requirements.
Travelling with a medical device or need special assistance?
If you have a medical device or require accessibility assistance, please speak with a screening officer at the start of the screening process. We have put together detailed information for people travelling with accessibility needs and for anyone travelling with a medical device.
Should you have questions, or feel uncomfortable at any stage of the process, please ask to speak with the on-duty screening supervisor. We also welcome your feedback — you can share your experience by emailing us at customerfeedback@aal.com.au
What to expect at the main security screening at Adelaide Airport
Everything you are taking through to the departures side of the airport must be scanned – from the contents of your pockets to the kid's pram and all your carry-on bags.
Empty your pockets (wallets, keys, coins etc) into your carry-on bags and place all bags, laptop, phone, and personal belongings into a tray for X-ray screening. Prams and wheelchairs may require screening by alternate methods.
You’ll be asked by security staff when it’s your turn to enter the body scanner. If further alarms present, alternate screening process may be required. If you are unable to use the body scanner, alternate screening processes will be determined by the Security Officer.
If an item can’t be cleared by the X-ray machine, the item may be required to be opened by the security team for further inspection. On some occasions, we may need to do a frisk search (a physical pat-down) to clear alarms, in this case you’ll be asked for consent to do so.
Got a question about security screening? Check out our comprehensive list of frequently asked questions to find out more about the security process.
What to expect when travelling international through Adelaide Airport
If you're flying on a direct international flight from Adelaide, you’ll go through an additional security screening point after the main screening area and before passport control.
As part of international security requirements, there are restrictions on the quantity of liquids, aerosols, gels (LAGs), and some inorganic powders (like powdered baby formula or protein powders) in your carry-on baggage.
Here’s the important bit:
At the second screening point, you’ll need to remove more items than you did at the main checkpoint.
Take out and place separately in trays:
- Laptops & tablets
- Aerosols
- All LAGs (Liquids, Aerosols & Gels) and place in a clear bag as per instructions below
- Inorganic powders (like powdered supplements, talc or spices)
Important information for liquids, aerosols and gels.
Pack the liquid, aerosol and gel items in a transparent, resealable plastic bag. Four sides of the bag’s sealed area must add up to no more than 80cms (e.g. 20x20cm or 15x25cm). The items should fit comfortably in the bag. Only one bag per person is allowed. Australia restricts the quantity of liquids, aerosols, gels and certain powders you can carry on board international flights. Powder items are to be kept separate from the liquid, aerosol and gel bag. These restrictions do not apply to your checked baggage or most domestic flights.
Duty-free goods in a sealed tamper- evident bag with relevant proof of purchase can be taken on board. Please note that if you have stopovers during your flight, your duty-free goods might be subject to powders, liquids, aerosols and gels restrictions. Read advice on when to purchase duty-free.
Please note you will be asked to surrender any over-sized powder, liquid, aerosol or gel items to our screening staff.
Find out more about what you can pack and international screening requirements
Assisted mobility and medical needs at Adelaide Airport security
We want every traveller to feel comfortable and supported at security. If you use mobility aids or have medical devices, here’s what to expect, and how we’ll help along the way.
Packing guidance and special assistance
Packing advice for travellers
Prohibited items at Australian Airports – what you can’t take on board
For everyone’s safety, some items can’t be taken on board your flight in carry-on or checked bags. Sharp objects, weapons, and anything that could be used to cause harm are not allowed. Other everyday items like tools, sporting gear or scissors may also be restricted.
Before you pack, we advise you to check what’s allowed to avoid delays at security.
View the full government list of prohibited items
Dangerous goods at Australian Airports – what items need special care when flying
Some things you use every day are considered dangerous when you fly. Batteries, aerosols, gas cylinders, flammable liquids and even some medical items can only travel under certain conditions.
Airlines may have different rules, so it’s important to check before you pack. If you’re unsure, ask your airline or visit CASA’s dangerous goods guide.
Most passengers now carry at least four devices powered by lithium batteries—like phones, laptops, and power banks. These batteries can pose a fire risk if damaged or packed incorrectly.
To keep everyone safe:
- Always pack lithium batteries and power banks in your carry-on baggage.
- Never place them in checked luggage.
If a battery overheats or malfunctions, cabin crew are trained to respond quickly and safely.
Not sure what’s allowed? Check with your airline or visit casa.gov.au/packright for more information on travelling with dangerous goods.
