What equipment is used to screen passengers and baggage today?
Under the multi-layered security system in place at U.S. airports, TSA Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) utilize walk through metal detection devices and, at some airports, Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) for screening passengers. Hand-held metal detectors are also used for to resolve alarms from the walk through metal detectors. In some cases, a pat down inspection is necessary to resolve hand-held metal detector alarms. A combination of Advanced Technology X-ray and Explosive Trace Detection technology is used to screen carry-on bags, while liquid bottle scanners help TSOs ensure that exempt liquids do not pose a threat to security.
