Welsh Pensioner Targeted at Airport Security
- Phyl and husband Alan at the 2025 st David's Hospice Christmas Fair in Llandudno(Image: )
- A pensioner has claimed she was left distressed after an experience at Manchester Airport that she says made her feel humiliated and exposed.
- Colostomy bags,which collect bodily waste following surgery,are subject to checks to ensure they are not being used to conceal prohibited items.
Phyl Oliver, 81, was left ‘humiliated’ by security treatment over her colostomy bag at Manchester Airport
Phyl and husband Alan at the 2025 st David’s Hospice Christmas Fair in Llandudno(Image: )
A pensioner has claimed she was left distressed after an experience at Manchester Airport that she says made her feel humiliated and exposed. Phyl Oliver, 81, alleges she was “treated like a criminal” during security checks because she wears a colostomy bag.
Colostomy bags,which collect bodily waste following surgery,are subject to checks to ensure they are not being used to conceal prohibited items. However, Phyl – a regular traveller – claims not all airport staff are sufficiently trained to handle such sensitive situations discreetly, notably since the introduction of newer scanning technology.
Phyl,who lives in Llandudno with her husband Al
“I was then marched off to a private room with two members of staff, where I was asked to reveal my bag. As this is worn under my clothing, it can’t be done without undressing. After splaying my legs I was asked to feel under my bag – they want you to do this so they can test your hands for traces of drugs or explosives.
“Although the testing was relatively quick, I felt humiliated. And for what purpose? I’m an 81-year-old woman while my husband is aged 84 and carries a sleep apnoea machine – what are the chances of us being international terrorists?”
Recently, computed tomography (CT) scanners have been introduced at UK airports. These devices utilise 3D imaging to generate detailed visuals of carry-on items, enhancing the detection of prohibited objects.
Artificial intelligence is also used to expedite the process through threat detection algorithms.
However, these new systems have led to passengers with colostomy bags being flagged more frequently for additional screening. Efforts are also underway to refine detection algorithms for individuals with limb abnormalities and wheelchair users.
When further screening is required, manual checks are performed. Aviation Security Officers (ASOs) conduct full-body searches using hand-held metal detectors and pat-down procedures.
In either a private room or the Central Search Area, stoma bags are “visually verified”. for the biggest stories in Wales first, sign up to our daily newsletter here
“The second time, when travelling to Riga, Latvia’s capital, in September, I was ready for them.I demanded to see the airport manager: he was a big man, and I was like a little terrier biting at his ankles!
“I told him my treatment was the equivalent of me asking him to drop his trousers, to bend over and let my husband inspect his underpants. I think he was a little aghast at the idea.
“In the terminal there are signs asking passengers not to abuse staff. I told the manager the next time I came I’d be wearing a sign asking staff not to abuse stoma bag passengers.”
Recent border security enhancements are part of a nationwide infrastructure program mandated by the Department of Transport and supervised by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). In response to enquiries from the Ileostomy and Internal Pouch Association (IA), the CAA confirmed that individual airports are responsible for designing upgrades and training personnel.
Across the UK, the introduction of CT scanners has been spearheaded by smaller, regional airports. Major international hubs, including Manchester and Heathrow, have lagged behind due to logistical challenges – they operate far more security lanes.
Complaints have already been raised by stoma bag users at airports such as Belfast, Luton and Cardiff as security teams adapt to the new scanners and procedures.
Phyl, a member of St Paul’s Church, Craig Y Don, said: “I’ve been told I don’t need to undress but where do they think my bag is attached? it’s beneath my trousers.During my Zoom interview (with the airport) this was contested – so I stripped off to show the reality.