What is one reason for which hold baggage may be screened?

The screening of hold baggage primarily aims to prevent unauthorized items from being brought onto an aircraft. This is a fundamental aspect of aviation security, as it helps safeguard passengers, crew, and the aircraft itself from potential threats. By inspecting baggage before it is loaded onto the plane, security personnel can identify and remove dangerous items such as weapons, explosives, or other contraband, thereby reducing the risk of incidents during flight. This screening process is critical in establishing a secure travel environment and maintaining public confidence in air travel safety.

The other options do not directly relate to the primary purpose of hold baggage screening in the context of security. While efficient baggage processing and check-in processes are important operational aspects of an airport, they are not the primary reasons for screening hold baggage. Additionally, counting the number of bags does not contribute to security measures.