Radical calm in aviation security: profiling controlled dissociation and behavioral ambiguity at checkpoints

Background In the context of aviation security, the display of extreme calmness by potentially dangerous individuals presents a behavioral paradox. While appearing non-threatening, such demeanor may reflect controlled dissociation or intentional affect suppression. Despite global advancements in behavioral detection, this specific form of ambiguity remains underexamined in risk profiling frameworks. This paper introduces “radical calm” as a novel construct within behavioral profiling, highlighting its relevance for identifying concealed threats that evade traditional detection models. Methods This study integrates established psychological theories of dissociation with analysis of real-world incidents, including behaviors exhibited by 9/11 hijackers Mohamed Atta and Ziad Jarrah, as well as comparative profiles of drug couriers and ideologically driven actors. A targeted literature review (2020–2024) was conducted alongside qualitative behavioral assessment using psychophysiological indicators and threat-context variables. Results Findings reveal that controlled dissociation—characterized by emotional neutrality, inhibited microexpressive output, and suppression of physical agitation—is a recurring trait among high-risk individuals at aviation checkpoints. These behavioral patterns often bypass standard stress-detection protocols, but become detectable through integrated contextual and kinetic profiling. Conclusion The phenomenon of “radical calm” warrants formal classification as a distinct risk marker in aviation security. This study introduces a foundational behavioral model to support frontline personnel in identifying deceptive calmness and decoding subtle nonverbal anomalies. Enhancing profiler awareness of dissociative suppression may significantly improve early threat recognition and intervention capabilities.