Mon, Apr 19, 2010
Says The Move Will Bolster Aviation Security
Saying the move will stimulate local economies and increase
airport security, DHS Secretary Janet Napolitano Thursday announced
the purchase of more than 1,200 explosives trace detection units
using $35.5 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act
(ARRA) funding.
"These state-of-the art technologies will strengthen security
and streamline screening operations while making air travel more
convenient for passengers," said Secretary Napolitano. "Explosives
trace detection technology, enhanced inline baggage screening
systems and improved surveillance capabilities are important
elements of our layered aviation security strategy to protect the
flying public from terrorism."
The Recovery Act funded explosives trace detection units
announced by Secretary Napolitano Thursday will effectively and
efficiently screen checked and carry-on baggage for explosives
residue. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has expanded
the random use of explosives trade detection technology—which
can also be used to screen the hands of passengers or their
clothing—as part of the Department's efforts to strengthen
aviation security at U.S. airports and around the world since the
attempted terrorist attack on Dec. 25, 2009.
More than 7,000 explosives trace detection units are currently
in use by TSA at U.S. airports.
In addition, $30.4 million in ARRA funding announced Thursday
will be used to expand an inline baggage screening system at
Minneapolis St. Paul International Airport (MSP). Inline baggage
handling systems use state-of-the-art technology to screen checked
baggage for explosives more quickly, while streamlining the
ticketing and boarding process. The systems also provide on-screen
resolution capabilities for TSA officers screening baggage,
reducing the number of re-scans and physical bag searches.
$6.1 million in ARRA funds will be used to purchase 135 chemical
analysis devices to identify potential explosives in medically
necessary liquids brought through security checkpoints at airports
across the country.
On March 5, Secretary Napolitano announced the initial
deployment of ARRA-funded advanced imaging technology (AIT) units
to 11 airports—the first of many to receive this new
technology as the result of the Recovery Act. AIT units are
designed to bolster security by safely screening passengers for
metallic and non-metallic threats—including weapons,
explosives and other objects concealed under layers of
clothing.
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