Security Procedures at Valencia Airport: What to Expect

Valencia Airport, officially known as Manises Airport (VLC), is one of Spain's busiest airports, handling millions of passengers each year. As with any major international airport, ensuring passenger safety and compliance with aviation regulations is a top priority. Understanding the security procedures at Valencia Airport will make your journey smoother, avoid unnecessary delays, and help you feel more confident when navigating the security checkpoints.

Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first flight, knowing what to expect during the security screening process can alleviate stress and ensure you’re prepared. This article provides an in-depth look at the security procedures at Valencia Airport, detailing each step and offering practical advice for a hassle-free experience.

1. Arriving at the Airport

It’s advisable to arrive at Valencia Airport at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international one. Security procedures, while efficient, can take time during peak travel periods. Upon arrival, the first task is to locate the correct terminal for your airline. Valencia Airport is compact, with a single terminal handling both domestic and international flights, so navigation is relatively easy. Signage is available in multiple languages, including English and Spanish.

Before proceeding to security, ensure you have your boarding pass and valid identification (passport or national ID card). Passengers flying within the Schengen Area will need a boarding pass and an ID card or passport. Non-Schengen travelers will require a passport and might need a visa, depending on the destination.

2. Check-In and Baggage Drop-Off

Most airlines at Valencia Airport offer online check-in, allowing you to check-in from 24 to 48 hours before your flight. However, if you have luggage to drop off, you’ll need to visit the airline’s check-in counters. Once your luggage is checked, you'll receive a boarding pass if you haven't done online check-in. Ensure that your carry-on bags comply with the airline's size and weight restrictions, as well as the airport's security guidelines.

After checking in, follow the signs toward the security checkpoint. Valencia Airport is well signposted, making it easy to navigate toward the next step.

3. Security Checkpoint: A Detailed Breakdown

The security screening process is a crucial part of your airport experience. It ensures the safety of passengers and crew by preventing dangerous items from being brought onto the aircraft. At Valencia Airport, the process is systematic and involves several key steps:

• Queue Management: As you approach the security checkpoint, you’ll be directed into different queues. There are separate lines for priority passengers, such as those flying in business class or holding elite status with the airline, and for regular passengers. During busy periods, security staff work diligently to manage the flow of passengers to prevent long delays.

• Document Check: Before proceeding to the actual screening, a security officer will ask to see your boarding pass. Have it ready, either printed or on your mobile device. Once your boarding pass is verified, you’ll be directed to the next available security lane.

• Removing Personal Items: Passengers are required to remove certain items before passing through the metal detectors. These include belts, watches, wallets, coins, and any electronic devices such as phones, tablets, and laptops. The airport provides trays for these items, which will be scanned separately. Shoes do not always need to be removed, but this depends on the security officer's discretion. It’s always a good idea to wear shoes that are easy to take off and put back on just in case.

• Liquids and Gels: As with all European airports, Valencia Airport adheres to the 100ml liquid rule. All liquids, gels, and aerosols in your carry-on luggage must be in containers no larger than 100ml. These containers must be placed in a clear, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of one liter. This bag should be removed from your luggage and placed in a tray for separate screening. Exceptions apply to baby food, prescription medications, and duty-free items purchased after passing through security.

• Electronic Devices: Laptops, tablets, and large electronics must be taken out of your carry-on bags and placed in a separate tray. Smaller electronics, such as phones, usually do not need to be removed. However, be sure to check with the security officer in case of specific instructions.

• Metal Detectors and Body Scanners: After placing your items in trays, you’ll proceed through a metal detector or full-body scanner. Follow the instructions of the security personnel, which may include raising your arms or standing in a specific position. If you trigger the metal detector, you may be asked to undergo additional screening, such as a pat-down or secondary inspection.

4. Security Screening for Luggage and Items

Once you’ve passed through the metal detector, your trays will be scanned by the X-ray machine. Security officers monitor these scans closely, and if they notice any suspicious items or require further clarification, they may pull your tray aside for additional inspection.

Common reasons for additional inspection include:

• Liquids not properly stored.
• Electronics or wires that appear tangled in the scan.
• Sharp objects or prohibited items, such as scissors, knives, or lighters.

If your tray is flagged, a security officer will manually inspect the contents. Be cooperative and patient during this process; the officers are there to ensure safety. If a prohibited item is found, you will be given the option to discard it or, if time allows, to return it to your checked baggage.

5. Special Procedures for Families, Elderly, and Disabled Passengers

Valencia Airport provides special assistance for passengers who may require additional help during the security process, including families with small children, elderly travelers, and passengers with disabilities.

• Families with Children: Families with infants and small children can bring baby food and milk in reasonable quantities through security. These items may be subject to additional testing, but exceptions are made for the comfort of the child.

• Disabled Passengers: Passengers with reduced mobility can request assistance from the airport staff. There are dedicated lanes for disabled travelers at the security checkpoint, ensuring a smoother and less stressful experience.

6. After Security: What Comes Next?

Once you’ve successfully passed through security, you’ll enter the departure area. Here, you’ll find a variety of duty-free shops, restaurants, and lounges where you can relax before your flight. If you’ve purchased duty-free items that include liquids over 100ml, these are permitted in your carry-on luggage, as they are sealed and accompanied by the appropriate receipts.

7. Final Thoughts and Tips

To ensure a smooth and efficient experience at Valencia Airport, keep these tips in mind:

• Prepare Early: Have your documents ready, pack liquids and electronics in an easily accessible manner, and follow the instructions of airport personnel.

• Be Aware of Prohibited Items: Familiarize yourself with items that are not allowed in carry-on luggage, such as sharp objects, firearms, or explosives.

• Utilize Priority Lanes: If you’re eligible for priority screening, take advantage of this to save time.

• Be Patient: Security screening can take time, especially during peak periods. Stay calm and cooperate with airport staff.

By understanding what to expect during the security process at Valencia Airport, you can reduce stress and ensure a safe, pleasant start to your journey.