The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) suggests that you notify an airport security officer that you are diabetic and are carrying supplies with you. All supplies, including needles, insulin and insulin pumps are allowed through the checkpoint but may have to be scanned or checked by hand.
The TSA advises that if you can, you should disconnect your insulin pump before stepping through the security scanner and allow it to be screened with carry-on luggage and other metal items such as keys and belt buckles. If you cannot remove the pump, tell the security officer and he or she will be required to perform a full-body pat down. The officer will visually inspect your pump and all your supplies, including your insulin and needles.
Medtronic, a manufacturer of insulin pumps, suggests that you always have your insulin pump inspected by hand. Metal detectors and x-ray scanners will not harm the pump but inspections by hand are advised. They say there is no reason to remove your pump.
All diabetic supplies including needles, syringes, glucometers and test strips can be brought through security and onto an airplane. However, according to the TSA, it is important to have properly labeled, prescribed insulin with your needles and other supplies, including your pump. As a security measure, it is possible that you will not be allowed to board the plane if insulin containers are not clearly identified as such.
Medtronic advises that if you encounter any problems while passing through airport security, you should ask to speak with the TSA ground security commissioner. The American Diabetes Association recommends that you contact 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383) if you feel you are being discriminated against. It says, Their goal is "for all people with diabetes to be free of discrimination everywhere they learn, play, work, and live."
