The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has begun installing new scanners at Rhode Island TF Green International Airport (PVD).
The new scanners use Computed Tomography (CT) technology and provide advanced explosives detection capabilities by applying a sophisticated algorithm to generate a 3D image of the contents of the carry-on bag.
US Senator Jack Reed, a member of the Appropriations Committee, noted that the installation of the carry-on scanners may cause short-term inconvenience, but will deliver long-term benefits to travellers by making their experience with airport security faster and more efficient in the future.
“Deploying this new screening technology is a win for passengers at Rhode Island TF Green International Airport,” Reed said. “It will make the screening process more efficient and ultimately allow travellers to keep items like their laptop and travel toiletries stowed in their carry-on bags. This technology has been successfully tested in other markets and I commend the TSA and RIAC [Rhode Island Airport Corporation] for swiftly deploying it here in Rhode Island.”
The new CT screening equipment shoots hundreds of images with an X-ray camera that spins around the conveyor belt to provide officers with a 3D picture of a carry-on bag to ensure it does not contain a threat. Once the installation is complete, travellers will experience fewer manual bag checks and would no longer be required to remove electronics and other items from carry-on baggage, resulting in improved passenger checkpoint experiences.
During this installation – from January 9 – periodic slowdowns in screening can be expected due to temporary security lane closures to accommodate the work, the airport said. This installation is scheduled to be completed by mid-February.
Image: Rhode Island TF Green International Airport
