Wed, Aug 25, 2004
TSA to Evaluate Explosives Detection Technologies to Enhance
Air Cargo Security
In an effort to enhance inspection
of break-bulk air cargo, the Transportation Security Administration
(TSA), this week began an Operational Test and Evaluation
(OT&E) of explosives detection devices at several commercial
air cargo-handling facilities.
Testing began this week at three airports including, Atlanta
Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL), Dallas Fort Worth
International Airport (DFW), and Miami International Airport (MIA).
TSA will expand the program to include air cargo facilities at Ted
Steven Anchorage International Airport (ANC), Los Angeles
International Airport (LAX), and Chicago O’Hare International
Airport (ORD) in the near future.
"A key component of TSA’s risk-based threat-managed
approach to air cargo security is our ability to utilize the latest
technologies to screen higher risk cargo," stated Rear Adm. David
M. Stone, USN (Ret.), Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security for
Transportation Security Administration. "This test further enhances
our security regime at these crucial shipping hubs and takes us one
step closer to our goal of screening 100 percent of higher risk
goods."
During the two-month evaluation, TSA will analyze the use of
Explosives Detection Systems, currently used in airports to screen
checked bags, for screening break-bulk cargo. Break-bulk cargo, so
named for non-palletized items that could later be consolidated on
a pallet or in a container, commonly consists of lightweight
manufactured components, individual packages and small parcels.
The OT&E is one of many initiatives included in TSA’s
Air Cargo Strategic Plan. The plan outlines steps the agency will
take to achieve its goal of screening 100 percent of higher-risk
cargo. Initiatives already in place include an enhanced
Known-Shipper Database that allows TSA to determine risk, random
inspections of foreign and domestic cargo, and an investment of $55
million in fiscal year 2004 to research new technologies.
TSA purchased the explosives screening equipment for use by
Alaska, American, Delta and United Airlines.
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