How does passenger screening work?

Passenger screening is a comprehensive process designed to ensure the safety and security of air travel. The correct answer highlights that it involves the inspection of individuals and their belongings. This process is crucial because it helps identify potential threats before passengers board an aircraft.

Inspections typically include the use of advanced technology such as metal detectors, body scanners, and X-ray machines for baggage, allowing security personnel to detect prohibited items such as weapons, explosives, and other dangerous materials. By examining both passengers and their belongings, security personnel can effectively mitigate risks and enhance the overall safety of the traveling public.

The other options do not encompass the full scope of passenger screening. Random checks, while a component of security, are not the sole focus, and limited checks for known travelers do not capture the breadth of the assessment given to all passengers. Visual inspection alone is also insufficient, as it does not utilize the technology available to detect concealed threats. Thus, the holistic approach of inspecting both individuals and their belongings is vital for maintaining security in the aviation sector.