How must hold baggage be protected upon screening?

Hold baggage must be protected from unauthorized interference during the screening process to ensure the integrity of security protocols. This protection is crucial for preventing tampering, contamination, or any other actions that could compromise the safety of the baggage or the aviation environment.

When baggage is screened, it passes through various security technologies and checks designed to detect prohibited items, explosives, or contraband. To maintain the effectiveness of these screenings, it is essential that the baggage is kept secure and handled by authorized personnel only. By preventing unauthorized access and potential interference, the aviation security process can function effectively, safeguarding both passengers and crew.

While other factors such as physical damage, misplacement, and protection from weather are important in general baggage handling, they do not directly pertain to the critical aspect of security screening where the focus is on preventing unauthorized interference with the baggage.