The Transportation Security Administration has installed a new computed tomography (CT) scanner at Quad City International Airport. (TSA photo)
MOLINE, Ill. — A state-of-the-art advanced technology computed tomography checkpoint scanner (CT) that provide 3-D imaging has been installed and is in use at the Transportation Security Administration checkpoint at Quad City International Airport (MLI).
“This new technology provides critical explosives detection capabilities and improves the ability for our TSA officers to determine whether an item inside a carry-on bag is a possible threat,” said Downstate Illinois’ TSA Deputy Federal Security Director Jeff Hardacre.
The system applies sophisticated algorithms for the detection of explosives by creating a 3-D image that can be viewed and rotated on three axes for thorough visual image analysis by a TSA officer. If a bag requires further screening, TSA officers will inspect it to ensure that a threat item is not contained inside.
The 3-D imagery allows TSA officers to manipulate the image on screen to get a better view of a bag’s contents and often clear items without having to open a carry-on bag.
“This state-of-the art technology represents an improved security threat detection capability at the checkpoint and it also reduces the need for pulling aside a bag to be opened which reduces a touchpoint during this pandemic,” Hardacre said.
This equipment is similar to what is used to scan checked baggage for explosive devices, and has been “sized” to fit at checkpoints to create such a clear image of a bag’s contents that the system can automatically detect explosives, including liquids, by shooting hundreds of images with an X-ray camera spinning around the conveyor belt to provide TSA officers with the three-dimensional views of the contents of a carry-on bag.
Checkpoint CT technology should result in fewer bag checks. Passengers using this machine at Quad City International Airport will be permitted to leave laptops and other electronic devices in their carry-on bags.
For the most up-to-date information about CT and to view a video of the X-ray monitor, visit TSA’s Computed Tomography page.