Technically, airport security scanners do not detect drugs but they can provide visual clues of drugs hidden under the clothes and in baggage. Even if the scanners cannot determine the exact composition, they can tell if an object is organic or metallic or how low or high density an object have.

Airlines themselves do not typically "look" for drugs, as their primary responsibility is flight safety; however, airport security (like the TSA) and customs officials meticulously screen for prohibited items. Modern baggage and full-body scanners are designed to identify abnormalities in density, shape, and composition. While scanners are optimized to detect metallic and organic explosives, drugs often appear as orange-colored organic masses on X-ray monitors. Furthermore, customs agents utilize highly trained drug-detection canines and chemical swabbing kits to identify illicit substances. In 2026, many airports use advanced CT scanners that provide 3D images of luggage, making it significantly harder to conceal substances within electronics or double-lined bags. If security identifies any suspicious organic material, they are legally required to notify law enforcement, as drug smuggling remains a top-priority criminal offense globally.