TSA unveils plans for testing advanced X-ray scanner for baggage

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has unveiled plans to begin testing advance technology (AT) X-ray machines, including multi-view and high definition X-rays, at security checkpoints in the coming weeks. The agency says the new tools will provide greatly enhanced explosive detection capabilities for carry-on baggage. The announcement is being made in conjunction with contract awards to L3 Communications, Smiths Detection, and Rapiscan Systems. The contracts call for each vendor to lease seven of their AT X-ray machines to TSA for testing in airports. The total cost of the initial contracts is $1.4 million with options to purchase additional units in the future.

TSA says AT X-ray has several advantages, including: a greatly enhanced display which is much clearer and more detailed than current generation X-ray; the ability to upgrade the system as enhanced algorithms and programs emerge; a stable, low maintenance platform and a smaller profile than currently available explosive detection systems. “The additional capability of AT scanners gives immediate benefit to our security officers in making security evaluations of carry-on bags,” said Kip Hawley, TSA administrator. “It will help both effectiveness and efficiency.”

Note that this technology is already in use in several airports around the world for checked baggage, but this initiative marks the first time multi-view and high definition X-ray systems will be deployed to security checkpoints specifically to screen carry-on bags. “These new X-ray technologies are built on systems not unlike computers millions of people use every day. They are totally upgradeable and programmable,” said Mike Golden, TSA CTO. “Comparing AT X-ray to current technology is like comparing a VHS tape to a DVD. Both play movies, but one is much clearer than the other.”