The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has introduced the latest checkpoint screening technology equipment at Florence Regional Airport in South Carolina.
The new advanced imaging technology (AIT) scanner uses automated target recognition software that eliminates passenger-specific images and instead auto-detects potential threats by indicating their location on a generic outline of a person. It’s the same generic image for all passengers, regardless of their gender, height or weight, and is designed to enhance passenger privacy.
The scanner’s software uses bright yellow boxes to indicate to a TSA officer the location of an alarm on the generic ‘cookie cutter’ image of a passenger. This way the officer knows exactly where to check for a possible threat item. If the machine indicates no threats, a green screen appears that indicates the passenger is cleared to pass through the checkpoint.
AIT uses millimeter wave technology that 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.
According to the TSA, imaging technology screening is safe for all travelers and meets all known national and international health and safety standards. It claims that the energy emitted by millimeter wave technology is 1,000 times less than the international limits and guidelines.