Hey PIT,
you can take the scanner on the plane with you, I alway have mine on me also,
just going through the airport you will have to but it in to be x-rayed but this is ok as I have have mine done about 20 -25 times now and no affect as yet !!!
the TSA agent that scan's the scanner mite just ask you a few thing about it and he will ask you to turn it on to show is working !!!
here in europe you can own and use a scanner as long as you don't listen in on the police/fire/phones and airband in the UK unless you have a R/T Licence....
hope this help's
.....Sean.....