The Transport Security Administration (TSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) have revealed self-service screening technology at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas.
Aiming to create a “near self-sufficient passenger screening process,” this new system will enable passengers to complete screening at their own pace with minimal assistance from Transport Security Officers (TSOs). Giving more agency to passengers in the security process, passengers will directly receive on-person alarm information and be afforded the opportunity for self-resolution in order to reduce instances where a pat-down or secondary screening procedures are required.
The current prototype has a video monitor supplying step-by-step instructions for passengers to follow. Once all checks are cleared, exit doors will open allowing passengers to collect their belongings and proceed on towards their flight. Testing will being in mid-March and TSA will collect passenger feedback and data on the system’s performance, design, cybersecurity, human factors and more to shape the future design of the system.
Dr. Dimitri Kusnezov, DHS Under Secretary for Science and Technology said:
“The number of airline passengers continues to increase year-over-year, creating a need for innovative screening solutions that enhance transportation security and make traveling more efficient. At S&T, we are pushing the envelope with new technologies and concepts toward designing the airport of the future. Self-paced screening is one step toward building that future.”
TSA Administrator David Pekoske further explained:
We are constantly looking at innovative ways to enhance the passenger experience, while also improving security. This self-service prototype allows our trusted travellers to complete the screening process at their own pace. Testing at the Innovation Checkpoint in Las Vegas gives us an opportunity to collect valuable user data and insights, and explore opportunities to apply parts of the prototype to other airport security checkpoints.”
As passenger volumes increase, the industry is leveraging technology to create more efficient systems. Do you think self-paced screening will become a fundamental part of the airport journey in the future?
For more like this see:
- Tara Mulrooney, CTO, YEG: Innovation and security
- Security and biometrics with Diane J. Sabatino, US Customs and Border Protection
- London Heathrow reports its busiest start to the year since the pandemic whilst keeping security queues low
