TSA Tests Scanner That May Improve Security
TSA is finally updating its decades-old security systems. On Thursday, Phoenix began testing a computed tomography (CT) scanner in carry-on baggage.
Thanks to the CT scanner, passengers can now leave their technology and fluids in their bags while passing through airport security, which means queues will be accelerated by up to 50 percent.
Not only does a CT scan make everyone feel like they have TSA PreCheck , it also improves detection by showing 3D images of the contents of their carry-on baggage . The images can be rotated and checked without opening the bag and are more detailed than those provided by current TSA X-ray scanners.
The second car will be tested in Boston later this month. In March, DHS announced a ban on flights of laptops and tablets from airports in 10 countries in North Africa and the Middle East following reports that terrorists were developing bombs disguised as laptop batteries. DHS considered extending the ban to Europe, but later dropped it .
Computed tomography is already being used for checked baggage, but is not being used for carry-on baggage due to the cost and large size of the vehicle, according to the Associated Press . But TSA hopes that new smaller vehicles like the one in Phoenix will improve smuggling detection and speed up security lines. Although they are smaller, they are just as effective.
And it’s time too. X-ray technology has been in use for over a decade and is not even effective. A 2015 internal audit found TSA officers were unable to locate 95 percent of the counterfeit weapons that undercover investigators smuggled through the security system (hurray).
These new machines can measure the density of objects, which helps security forces better identify which objects might be explosive. If the tests pass, TSA may also loosen liquid restrictions – you can finally carry more than the 3.4 ounce limit for liquids and gels.
Hopefully this works, because we are tired of agonizing waiting in long lines .