TSA testing shoe scanning technology

Published 28 July 2008

he Transportation Security Administration is testing show scanning machines from L2 Communications; this is a step toward eventually allowing passengers to keep their shoes on when they go through the security checkpoint

Frequent — and not so frequent — passengers will like this: TSA is testing shoe scanning technology at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Testing of this technology is a step toward eventually allowing passengers to keep their shoes on when they go through the security checkpoint; the biggest complaint about the security screening process. The two units at LAX — manufactured by L3 Communications — will be used to collect data and evaluate the technologies’ potential use in the checkpoint environment. Since the testing is solely for data collection, the shoe scanners will be positioned in front of the walk through metal detector and passengers will still need to remove their shoes to go through the screening process.

DHS’s Science and Technology Directorate is also testing shoe scanners and will collaborate with TSA on the results. TSA will use units on loan from L3 to conduct the testing and will continue to examine new technologies, like the shoe scanner, that can improve security and reduce hassle for travelers.