Going Through Security at Airports

B2 – Upper Intermediate

Why do travelers have to go through all the security checks at airports?

Watch the video using the link below to learn about a major event that changed air travel security forever.

Vocabulary Questions:

1. What does “hijacked” mean? “In 1972, three men with guns and hand grenades hijacked a plane from Birmingham, Alabama.” Use it in a sentence.
2. What does “ransom” mean? “They threatened to crash the plane into a nuclear reactor in Tennessee unless they were paid a $10 million ransom.” Use it in a sentence.
3. What does “screening” mean? “Airports began screening passengers and their carry-on luggage like they still do today.” Use it in a sentence.

Discussion Questions:

1. Why do you think airport security needs to become stricter after incidents like this?
2. How do security screenings help prevent dangerous situations?
3. Do you think security screenings at most airports are thorough enough? Why or why not?
4. What other safety measures can airports implement to ensure passenger safety?
5. How have security procedures changed over the years?