The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced that two new computed tomography (CT) X-ray scanners are being installed at the security checkpoint at West Virginia International Yeager Airport.

Screening equipment

According to the TSA, the two new pieces of screening equipment will scan carry-on items at the checkpoint by applying a sophisticated algorithm.

The scanners shoot hundreds of images with an X-ray camera spinning around the conveyor belt to provide TSA officers with 3D views of carry-on bag contents.

This new screening equipment technology creates a clear image of a bag’s contents, meaning that the system can automatically detect explosives and other threat items.

A TSA officer can view the 3D X-ray image on a monitor and manipulate the image to get a better view of a bag’s contents, ultimately reducing the number of carry-on bags that need to be opened and manually inspected.

However, if a bag requires further screening, a TSA officer will inspect it to ensure that a threat item is not contained inside.

Passenger convenience

“The CT units represent not only enhanced security but also a passenger convenience because passengers using these machines at Yeager Airport are permitted to leave their laptops and other electronic devices in their carry-on bags,” said the TSA in a statement.

“Additionally, passengers screened in security lanes with CT units do not need to remove their travel-sized 3-1-1 liquids.”

With the new CT scanner screening equipment, all carry-on items, including roller-bags, need to be placed into a bin for screening instead of being placed directly on the conveyor belt.

The TSA highlights that the new scanners are more efficient for the passenger than the older advanced technology machines, which provided TSA officers with only a 2D image and required the passenger to remove or divest various items from their carry-on bags before being screened.