Do hearing aids set off airport security?
If you are planning a trip and you use hearing aids, you might be wondering if these devices will interfere with airport security.
In this blog post, we answer this question and give you tips and advice on going to the airport and on a plane as a deaf or hard of hearing person.
Travelling as a deaf or hard of hearing person
At Liverpool Airport, we recognise that travelling as a deaf or hard as hearing person can be challenging. We strive to make your airport experience – and your journey – as comfortable and stress-free as possible. To help prepare you for your trip, we’ve rounded up everything you need to know about travelling as a deaf or hard of hearing person, along with information on the assistance that we offer here at the airport for people with hidden disabilities.
Can you take hearing aids through airport security?
Yes, hearing aids can be taken through airport security. Hearing aids don’t set off the metal detectors, so there’s no need to worry about this. You can wear your hearing aids at all times, including throughout the airport, when making your way through airport security, and during your flight.
If you do choose to remove your hearing aids through airport security, we recommend keeping hold of them, rather than placing them into the plastic trays on the conveyor belt as this can sometimes generate static electricity, which may cause damage to your hearing aids.
It’s always worth letting our security staff members know if you’re wearing hearing aids before travelling through security. If something is picked up by the metal detector, our staff will be able to rule out the hearing aids as the cause. This will also allow our team to support you in the best way they can – including being clear with communication.
If you need assistance at any point during your journey throughout the airport or throughout your flight, please reach out to a staff member. Our team is always happy to help and will be keen to make your time at the airport as enjoyable as possible.
At the airport
At Liverpool John Lennon Airport, we recognise that travelling through an airport can be unsettling for anyone who is deaf or hard of hearing. With large, open spaces and lots of background noise, it can be uncomfortable for hearing aid users.
To help make your experience more comfortable, we have induction loops available at our terminals, which are designed to cut out background noise. To make use of our induction loops, simply switch your hearing aid to the “T” setting.
Here at Liverpool Airport, we also offer hidden disability sunflower lanyards for anyone who is deaf, hard of hearing, or has another hidden disability. Wearing a sunflower lanyard is a discreet indication to our staff that you may need extra time and assistance. This can really help our deaf or hard of hearing visitors to feel at ease.
If you would like to use one of our sunflower lanyards, you can request one by emailing customerservices@liverpoolairport.com in advance of your flight. Please provide your flight number and departure date.
A sunflower lanyard does not provide a fast track through security, though fast track tickets are available to be booked separately.
To make your time in the airport more comfortable, you might consider escaping the crowds and booking the quieter environment of the Liverpool Airport Aspire VIP Lounge. With less background noise, complimentary food and drink, free WiFi, flatscreen TVs, and comfy seats, it’s well worth a visit.
On the plane
On the plane, there’s no need to turn your hearing aid off at any point throughout your flight. If your hearing aid is Bluetooth enabled, it will need to be switched to flight mode. This will make sure your hearing aids can’t send or receive phone signals.
You may feel more comfortable turning down the volume on your hearing aids during your flight, or removing them, as the plane’s engines can be noisy. It’s a good idea to let a member of the cabin crew know if you do this, so they can make you aware of any important announcements.
Don’t forget to pack your hearing aid batteries in your carry-on luggage in case they run out during your trip. Or, if your hearing aids are rechargeable, remember to take your charger with you.
With most airlines, the safety videos are captioned for deaf or hard of hearing passengers. If you find the video isn’t captioned, ask a member of the cabin crew for an illustrated safety card.
If your hearing aids are connected to your phone, make sure you check any data roaming charges for your destination before you arrive. Whilst Bluetooth won’t incur any costs abroad, using the internet abroad can be pricey, so it’s good to be aware of this.
Remember, if you need assistance at any stage during your time in the airport or your flight, please don’t hesitate to ask a member of staff who will be happy to help you with everything from check-in to touch-down at your destination. We hope you have a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
