New Equipment Installed to Screen Checked and Carry-On Luggage
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has completed installation and certification of a stand-alone CT-80 X-ray unit that is being used to screen checked baggage of travelers departing Waterloo Regional Airport (ALO). A similar machine is also in use at the checkpoint to scan carry-on baggage.
Prior to the installation of the new X-ray unit, TSA officers screened all checked luggage departing ALO by hand. By law, TSA is required to screen all checked luggage for explosives and other security threats that could be catastrophic on an aircraft.
“TSA never lost sight of its fundamental transportation security mission, whether we carried out our responsibilities with the assistance of technology or did so manually. The addition of the CT-80 X-ray unit represents another major milestone in security operations at ALO,” said Iowa TSA Federal Security Director John Bright. “This high-capacity upgrade ensures that TSA’s screening operations are efficient while delivering the highest level of security.”
The CT-80 unit generates a 3-D X-ray image of the contents of each checked bag. It is programmed to analyze the contents of the bag to determine if it is cleared for travel or contains a potential security threat that needs further inspection. TSA has an established process in place to further screen the bag and resolve any security threats. The X-ray unit is capable of screening up to 375 bags per hour at full capacity.
“On behalf of the City of Waterloo and the Airport Board, we would like to thank the Department of Homeland Security and the Transportation Security Administration for their significant investment for the installation of next-generation security equipment at Waterloo Regional Airport for both passengers and their checked luggage,” said Keith Kaspari, Director of Aviation for the City of Waterloo.
Installation of the checked baggage X-ray unit was completed in November. Local TSA officers received training on the use of the CT-80 unit and became certified in its operation. This X-ray scanner is now the primary method for screening checked baggage departing ALO. A similar CT scanner, sized for the checkpoint, has been in use at the ALO checkpoint since July.
RSVP for media demo this week
Local and Area Media are invited to see this new technology in person at a demo. Iowa TSA Federal Security Director John Bright and Keith Kaspari, City of Waterloo Director of Aviation, will be on hand to provide interviews at Waterloo Regional Airport on Thursday, Feb. 9 at 10 a.m.
RSVP to jessica.mayle@tsa.dhs.gov or Keith.Kaspari@WATERLOO-IA.ORG with your outlet name.
