Over 20 thousand passengers hurry through the security checkpoints at Helsinki Vantaa each day.
Even though detailed instructions for packing are available online, in the rush and excitement of traveling, some prohibited items can be left in one’s carry-on.
Every day, security check personnel remove thousands of lighters, scissors, liquids and other prohibited items from passengers’ hand luggage. But sometimes the removed objects are little bit more surprising.
1. A wedding cake
”One passenger had ordered a fancy cake for their wedding and wanted to carry it in their hand luggage to the venue. Unfortunately a lot of food items are classified as liquids and therefore can not be taken through security,” explains Joni Pekkanen, the Head of Security Services from Finavia.
Thankfully, this passenger had enough time to organize for the cake to be shipped via courier.
2. Souvenir knives from Lapland
”Firearms should be transported in your checked-in luggage, and they must be unloaded and packed properly with permission from the airline."
"Also toy weapons, BB guns and parts of guns are prohibited in hand luggage. We very rarely come across real firearms but gun parts and toy guns are removed from carry-ons occasionally”, says Pekkanen.
Apart from firearms, security officers at Helsinki Airport also remove sharp objects such as souvenir knives from Lapland. Those should be checked in.
3. Fish roe and Finnish Easter delicacy ’mämmi’
”Many passengers are not aware of all the things that are classified as liquids in accordance with air traffic security guidelines. During Easter, many try to bring the Finnish traditional dessert ‘mämmi’ with them, and around Christmas it’s often things like fish roe and caviar.”
You can only carry liquids in packages of up to 100 milliliters.
Many foods are classified as liquids: a good rule of thumb is that if you could spread the food, it’s considered a liquid.
Read more about security check procedure.
