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.

FMI:  www.dhs.gov/recovery