TSA to Expand CT Scanner Technology to More Airports Around the US
On Monday, the Transportation Security Administration announced its plans to test computed tomography scanners (CT) at select US airport checkpoints. The CT scanners, which have been rolling out slowly — most recently at New York (JFK) Terminal 8 — use algorithms to detect explosives and create a 3-D image that can be viewed and rotated 360 degrees by a TSA agent.
The agency has been trying to improve the security-screening process, as well as speeding it up with these new technologies and training programs. The TSA said the checkpoint CT technology should lead to fewer bag checks and eventually, passengers may also be able to leave laptops and liquids in their carry-on bags.
In addition to Phoenix (PHX), Boston (BOS) and JFK, where the technology is already in place, the following airports will be receiving these units, with more being deployed in the upcoming months.
- Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI)
- Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
- Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)
- Houston Hobby Airport (HOU)
- Indianapolis International Airport (IND)
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
- McCarran International Airport (LAS)
- Oakland International Airport (OAK)
- Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
- San Diego International Airport (SAN)
- St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL)
- Washington-Dulles International Airport (IAD)
By the end of the year, TSA plans to have up to 40 units in place at airports around the US in addition to 16 units at federal testing facilities. By the end of the fiscal year 2019, more than 145 of the devices will be in airports.
"TSA is committed in getting the best technology to enhance security and improve the screening experience," said TSA Administrator David Pekoske. "Use of CT technology substantially improves TSA's threat detection capability at the checkpoint. By leveraging strong partnerships with industry, we are able to deploy new technology quickly and see an immediate improvement in security effectiveness."
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