Photography film | aviation.govt.nz

Carry-on bag

Checked-in luggage

Can I take this item on a plane?

Yes, you can take photography film on a plane.

What are the restrictions?

There are no restrictions that apply to the carriage of photography film.

Will X-ray damage unprocessed photography film?

Yes, the X-ray process will damage your unprocessed film and that is why we recommend:

you take any unprocessed film in your carry-on bag;
you can request your unprocessed film and disposable camera be manually inspected and not X-rayed;
if you are taking unprocessed film in your checked luggage, consider using lead-lined protective bags.

If your unprocessed film is located within a camera, other than a disposable camera, you will need to remove the unprocessed film from the camera, to avoid damaging the film. This is because all electronic devices, including cameras, must be X-rayed.

What happens if I have a restricted item in my carry-on bag?

You will be asked to relinquish all dangerous or prohibited items found in your carry-on luggage. If you refuse:

you will not be permitted to move through the screening point, and
your airline will be advised of your refusal.

How does Aviation Security screen for restricted items?

AvSec X-ray bags going onto aircraft to ensure there is nothing dangerous in them.

Checked luggage - if something comes up on the X-ray that needs investigating, the bag will be opened, searched and any dangerous good or prohibited item will be removed, with a bag search notification form left within the bag.
Carry-on - if something comes up on the X-ray that needs investigating an AvSec Officer will request a bag search, and the bag will be opened and searched in your presence. If any dangerous goods or prohibited items are found, you will be asked to relinquish them. If you refuse:
- you will not be permitted to move through the screening point, and
- your airline will be advised of your refusal

What if my items are removed?

For more information, see Retrieving your removed items.