What is the purpose of passenger screening at airport security?

The purpose of passenger screening at airport security is primarily to detect prohibited items and ensure passenger safety. This process involves various security measures, including the use of metal detectors, body scanners, and X-ray machines for carry-on luggage. The goal is to identify and intercept any items that could pose a threat to the safety of passengers and crew during the flight, such as weapons, explosives, or other dangerous materials. Effective screening is vital for maintaining security in aviation and preventing incidents that could jeopardize the safety of all individuals involved in the air travel process.

The other choices do not pertain directly to the core function of security screening. Collecting boarding passes and verifying travel itineraries are administrative processes that assist the boarding process but do not actively contribute to the safety and security of passengers. Assisting with baggage claims is related to the arrival and retrieval of luggage, which occurs after a flight, rather than at the pre-flight security stage.