DALLAS – The Transportation Security Administration (TSA), in partnership with Dallas Love Field (DAL), has upgraded the automated baggage screening system to increase speed, efficiency, and reduce the risk of injury for TSA Transportation Security Officers (TSOs). The new mobile Inspection Table (MIT) system went online in November 2017 and has been phased-in to avoid any disruptions to operations. The final system configuration, scheduled for completion in early summer 2018, will include 16 new baggage screening stations, 44 MITs, and enhanced bag tag identification.
MITs are mobile robot “tables” that move checked bags that require additional screening to the resolution area. The vast majority of checked bags are screened through the automated inline baggage screening system without any physical contact with TSA TSOs. The small percentage of bags that require additional screening are diverted to a resolution area, where they are searched directly on the stainless steel surface and routed automatically back the start of the system. The MITs move the bags quietly and safely to search stations, eliminating the need to lift or pull them, which can cause injury.
“This system enables us to better track bags through the system, which speeds up the process by reducing backups in the system and misidentifications,” said Amy Williams, TSA federal security director for DAL. “MITs also decrease the risk of injury to our officers, who no longer have to lift or pull bags to their work stations for screening.”
“As part of our continued commitment to lead the evolution of the airport experience, Dallas Love Field is always looking for newer and faster technology to reach new heights in terms of economy of scale,” said Tim Smith, interim assistant director of Operations at DAL. “With the MIT system, our partners at TSA can process a record number of bags with greater efficiency, which improves the passenger experience.”
The MIT system was manufactured by Daifuku Airport Technologies (ATec).