The TSA is deploying 3-D screening systems at 12 additional
airports, part of a plan to test more than 145 of the machines by the end of
2019.
The computerized axial tomography (CT) scanners have long
been in use in medicine, and the TSA already uses CT scanners for checked
baggage. But the technology has only recently reached the point where machines
could be made small enough to work at airport checkpoints. The TSA began testing the scanners in Phoenix and Boston last summer and recently deployed a
unit at New York's Kennedy Airport.
CT screening technology could eventually put an end to
requirements that flyers remove electronics from their carry-ons at checkpoints
as well as eliminate the need for checkpoint prohibitions on liquid containers
larger than 3.4 ounces, Steve Karoly, the TSA's assistant administrator for
security capabilities, said in an interview over the winter. The agency said
Monday that it also expects the technology to result in fewer bag checks.
The scanners provide security screeners with 3-D images that
can be rotated for a more thorough analysis than what existing TSA scanners
allow. They are also programmed with algorithms to detect explosives, weapons
and other items that are not allowed in carry-on bags.
Along with Boston, Phoenix and JFK, scanners are being
deployed in Baltimore, Chicago O'Hare, Cincinnati, Houston Hobby, Indianapolis,
Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Oakland, Philadelphia, San Diego, St. Louis and
Washington Dulles airports.
The TSA said it plans to have up to 40 CT scanners in
airports before the end of the year, with additional airports receiving those
units in the coming months.