CONCORD, N.C. Officials with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced today the installation of two new computed tomography (CT) X-ray scanners is on track to begin Monday at the Concord-Padgett Regional Airport (JQF) security checkpoint.
Installation of the new equipment will occur in a phased approach, with one new lane being equipped weekly over the next two weeks. Once each lane is modified and completes certification, it will open for screening before installation of the next lane begins.
During the project, only one security screening lane will be in operation and passengers are urged to arrive to the terminal at least two hours prior to their departure time.
The new CT scanners will be used to screen travelers carry-on luggage in the security checkpoints. CT units apply a sophisticated algorithm as they generate a 3-D image of the contents of the carry-on bag. A TSA officer can manipulate the 3-D X-ray image on-screen to allow for a better view of the bags contents, ultimately reducing the number of bag checks that are required.
When a carry-on bag is screened through a CT scanner, travelers can leave everything in their carry-on bag, including electronics larger than a cell phone and food. The opening to the X-ray tunnel on a CT unit is slightly smaller than on a traditional X-ray unit so TSA advises travelers not to force larger items into the tunnel, but to ask a TSA officer for assistance. Another feature of the CT scanner system is every carry-on item must be placed in a bin for screening.
Use of CT technology at our security checkpoints is a win-win for TSA and passengers, said Beth Walker, TSA Federal Security Director for JQF. We get increased detection capability which leads to fewer bag checks, and passengers get to leave their electronics and 3-1-1 liquids in their bags.
Source: U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Transportation Security Administration