First Full Body Scanners Being Deployed Nationwide

The first 11 airports receiving advanced imaging technology (AIT) units are gearing up for their arrival. TSA reports on its blog that advanced imaging technology safely screens passengers for metallic and non-metallic threats, including weapons, explosives and other objects concealed under clothing that might normally go undetected.

AIT units are currently being set up at Boston Logan International airport, and within a week they’ll be at Chicago O’Hare International airport. You should see the rest of the airports on this list in action by this summer:

• Boston Logan International (BOS)
• Charlotte Douglas International (CLT)
• Chicago O’Hare International (ORD)
• Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International (CVG)
• Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FFL)
• Kansas City International (MCI)
• Los Angeles International (LAX)
• Mineta San José International (SJC)
• Oakland International (OAK)
• Port Columbus International (CMH)
• San Diego International (SAN)

A total of 450 AIT units will be deployed by the end of 2010 and the additional airports will be announced in the near future.

TSA Photo

TSA says many factors are taken into consideration before AIT units are deployed, including the airports' infrastructure. The large size of the machines, as well as the consideration for remote viewing locations must be considered when selecting locations for deployment.

TSA Photo

Currently, 40 AIT units purchased previously are deployed at 19 airports nationwide.

FMI: www.tsa.gov