Last Friday, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) stated that it had recently purchased new full-size Computed Tomography (CT) x-ray systems for examining carry-on luggage. During the summer of 2022, the new scanners will be implemented at TSA checkpoints around the United States.

Analogic Corporation, an American business that specializes in health care and security technologies, was awarded a $781.2 million contract by the American government agency for the advanced equipment and maintenance of the new high-tech scanners. Within the next few months, the corporation will deliver and deploy the powerful equipment, which has a futuristic style.

“These awards are another important step in enhancing aviation security,” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske, and added: “They provide our dedicated frontline officers with one of the best tools available to screen passenger carry-on items and also improves the passenger experience by allowing passengers to keep more items in their carry-on bags during the screening process.”

According to the information presented, the new powerful CT systems will assist accelerate wait times. Great news for US passengers, given that the TSA's process has been slowed by covid restrictions and new security measures enacted during the pandemic.

Travelers in the United States will be able to witness the new technology at TSA checkpoints during this year's summer season. Weapons, explosives, and other prohibited goods can be detected using modern computer tomography technology.

The new scanners use advanced algorithms to recreate 3D representations of the objects found inside carry-on luggage. TSA officials will be able to examine, rotate, and analyze images on three axes. Authorities will be able to identify harmful things this way. As a result, passengers will not have to remove as many items from their luggage.

The new equipment is comparable to that used to scan checked bags, but it's smaller, easier to deploy at checkpoints, and has a better algorithm. Screening lanes with disposal stations, automatic bin return, and high threat containment are all included in full-sized CT scanners. The government anticipates receiving 469 base and 469 full-size systems soon.

TSA has already invested $198 million in Analogic Corporation equipment and service for 300 mid-size Checkpoint Property Screening Systems (CPSS) that use the same technology to improve security in a touch-free environment, which was completed in August 2021. These are already being placed in airports around the United States.

Travelers in the United States may notice the new sophisticated spaceship-like scanners at TSA checkpoints in the coming weeks.

On April 18, TSA will lift the mask mandate on airports and passengers will be able to travel without face coverings. The mandate has been extended, but many remain optimistic about the new date. American Airlines even considered the same date to sell alcohol during flights again, considering that the mask mandate was one of the reasons some passengers broke the rules. 

The new scanners will accelerate TSA’s regular security check process at airports. However, US citizens and permanent residents can already speed up this procedure by registering and paying for TSA Precheck, a membership that provides benefits for American travelers.

With a TSA Precheck registration travelers do not have to remove shoes, belts, or light jackets, they will get an expedited screening process and are also allowed to leave laptops and approved liquids inside carry-on bags. Passengers registered for TSA Precheck must bear in mind that TSA recently warned travelers that unruly passengers could lose this privilege. 

TSA has also recently expanded to international destinations. The agency opened a location in the Bahamas at the Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau. US travelers coming from the Bahamas to the US can use their TSA PreCheck membership to avoid long lines and get home faster.