Sixteen More Airports Slated To Receive Millimeter Wave Screening Devices

TSA on Monday announced 16 airports which are set to receive recently purchased millimeter wave Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) units. The machines will be deployed with new automated target recognition (ATR) software designed to enhance privacy by eliminating passenger-specific images while improving throughput capabilities and streamlining the checkpoint screening process.

"The deployment of this technology further strengthens security while also enhancing passenger privacy," said TSA Assistant Administrator for Security Capabilities Robin Kane. "The ability to safely detect non-metallic threats concealed under layers of clothing provides TSA Officers with an invaluable resource."
 
TSA plans to deploy units to the following airports in the coming weeks:

• Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB)
• Bangor International Airport (BGR)
• Bismarck Municipal Airport (BIS)
• Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL)
• Des Moines International Airport (DSM)
• Eastern Iowa Airport (CID)
• Grand Forks Airport (GFK)
• Juneau International Airport (JNU)
• Ketchikan  International Airport (KTN)
• Louisville International Airport (SDF)
• Little Rock National Airport (LIT)
• Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP)
• Portland International Jetport (PWM)
• Rapid City Regional Airport (RAP)
• Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (SAV)
• Will Rogers World Airport (OKC)

TSA will make additional airport announcements as plans are finalized. Many factors are taken into consideration before AIT units are deployed including airport readiness and checkpoint infrastructure. AIT is designed to enhance security by safely screening passengers for metallic and non-metallic threats—including weapons, explosives and other objects concealed under layers of clothing. This technology has led to the detection of hundreds of prohibited, illegal or dangerous items at checkpoint nationwide since January 2010.

Imaging technology screening is safe for all travelers, and the technology meets all known national and international health and safety standards. In fact, the energy emitted by millimeter wave technology is 1000 times less than the international limits and guidelines.

In September 2011, TSA purchased 300 millimeter wave units equipped with ATR, which are currently being deployed. Currently, there are approximately 540 AIT units at more than 100 airports nationwide. President Obama’s fiscal 2011 budget included the purchase of 500 units, and the President’s fiscal 2012 budget requests funding for an additional 275 units. 

FMI: www.tsa.gov/ait