NEW ORLEANS - The Transportation Security Administration has begun a three-week pilot test of specialized portable explosive detection technology at transportation locations across New Orleans.

“This pilot will enable us to test explosives detection equipment that has been specially modified to withstand adverse weather and operating conditions such as high heat and humidity,” said John Sammon, TSA Assistant Administrator, Office of Transportation Sector Network Management.

During the test period, transportation security officers from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport will be deployed to various maritime, mass transit and bus venues including Port of New Orleans cruise terminals, the Union Passenger Terminal and Crescent City Connection ferry terminals.

The officers will be accompanied by a TSA program manager and a law enforcement entity under contract to TSA. To test for explosives, the equipment operator wipes a swab over the surface of a bag or vehicle. The swab is placed inside the explosives trace detection unit which analyzes the content for the presence of potential explosive residue. In the event explosives are found during the pilot, the local law enforcement officer on scene will take control in conjunction with the system operator. 

Testing of the equipment will occur at times most optimal for transit operators to allow for the free flow of passengers. Since 2004, TSA has conducted pilot tests of screening equipment for use in surface modes of transportation at more than 15 venues.

For more information about TSA, please visit our website at www.tsa.gov

For more information, contact: Jon Allen Press Office U.S. Department of Homeland Security Phone: 404-694-5894