Updates

TSA Announces Advanced Imaging Technology Deployments at U.S. Airports

WASHINGTON – The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) today announced 29 airports which are set to receive recently purchased millimeter wave Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) machines. The machines will be deployed with new automated target recognition software designed to enhance privacy by eliminating passenger-specific images while improving throughput capabilities and streamlining the checkpoint screening process.

“We remain committed to implementing technologies that strengthen passenger privacy while ensuring the highest level of security,” said TSA Administrator John S. Pistole. “In addition to improving the passenger experience at the checkpoint, advanced imaging technology continues to give us the greatest opportunity to detect and deter evolving threats to aviation.”

TSA plans to deploy units to the following airports in the coming months:

  • Akron-Canton Regional (CAK)
  • Albany International (ALB)
  • Austin-Bergstrom International (AUS)
  • Baton Rouge Metropolitan (BTR)
  • Bishop International (FNT)
  • Casper/Natrona County International (CPR)
  • Chattanooga Metropolitan (CHA)
  • Daytona Beach International (DAB)
  • Durango-La Plata County (DRO)
  • Gainesville Regional (GNV)
  • Hilo International (ITO)
  • Kahului (OGG)
  • Killeen Fort Hood Regional (GRK)
  • Knoxville McGhee Tyson (TYS)
  • Lansing Capital City (LAN)
  • Manchester Boston Regional (MHT)
  • Meadows Field (BFL)
  • Norfolk International (ORF)
  • Pensacola Regional (PNS)
  • Peoria International (PIA)
  • Plattsburgh International (PBG)
  • Roberts Field-Redmond Municipal (RDM)
  • Rochester International (RST)
  • Rogue Valley International-Medford (MFR)
  • South Bend (SBN)
  • Stewart International (SWF)
  • Tallahassee Regional (TLH)
  • Wendover (ENV)
  • Youngstown-Warren Regional (YNG)

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.

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, which are being deployed in the coming months. Currently, there are nearly 500 AIT units at 78 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.

For more information about AIT, visit www.tsa.gov/ait.

For more information, contact: TSA Press Affairs Phone: (571) 227-2829