New machines at TSA checkpoints could (finally) let passengers leave liquids and laptops in their bags
The TSA is working to develop a next-generation screening system that could finally let passengers leave liquids in bags at security screening checkpoints. But it could be years or even a decade before these systems are actually introduced to the public.
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The agency has had a long-running contract competition for new baggage screening machines, known as the Checkpoint Property Screening System (CPSS). As first reported by Bloomberg Government, the TSA updated two requests for proposal (RFP) for a new security system in April, suggesting the agency is continuing to move ahead with its efforts to launch the program.
According to the RFPs and amendments, reviewed by TPG, the agency is looking to replace the current X-ray bag scanning machines with machines that use Computed Tomography (CT) scanning, which would allow screeners to see and manipulate a 3-D image of a bag's contents.
Bringing CT scanning to security screening lines would mean that passengers could leave liquids and other electronics in their luggage, the TSA says, because screeners could manipulate the image to see around, under, and behind those items. With the current x-ray system, the 2-D image that is produced can be obscured by liquids and other things.
CT imaging is already used to inspect checked luggage and is used for medical purposes.
The use of the new machines would begin gradually; according to Bloomberg, only 15 systems would be put into place initially, although the TSA could order up to 410 more depending on how successful the implementation is.
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- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
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4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S. |
4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X). |
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Why We Chose It
There's a lot to love about the Amex Gold card. It's been a fan favorite during the pandemic because of its fantastic rewards rate on restaurants (that includes takeout and delivery in the U.S.!) and U.S. supermarkets. If you're hitting the skies soon, you'll also earn bonus points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders) and up to $120 in annual dining statement credits at eligible partners, there's no reason that the foodie shouldn't add this card to their wallet. Enrollment required.Pros
- 4x on dining at restaurants and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1x)
- 3x on flights booked directly with the airline or with Amex Travel
- Welcome bonus of 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first six months
Cons
- Weak on travel outside of flights and everyday spending bonus categories
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber/food credits
- Few travel perks and protections
- Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $4,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
- Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $250.
- Terms Apply.
- See Rates & Fees