TSA installs a new 3-D scanner at Bishop International Airport to improve explosives detection

Local Press Release
Wednesday, October 21, 2020
The Transportation Security Administration has installed a new computed tomography (CT) scanner at Bishop International Airport to screen checked baggage. (TSA photo)

FLINT, MI — A state-of-the-art advanced technology computed tomography scanner (CT) that provides 3-D imaging has been installed and is in use at the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) baggage screening area at Bishop International Airport (FNT).

“This new 3-D imagery will allow our TSA officers to manipulate the image on a screen to clear items without having to open a carry-on bag,” said Detroit’s TSA Federal Security Director Steve Lorincz. “This improved security threat detection capability at the airport security checkpoints will help find prohibited items and will also reduce pulling aside a bag to be opened and searched, thus reducing a touchpoint during this pandemic.”

The system applies sophisticated algorithms for the detection of explosives by creating a 3-D image that can be viewed and rotated 360 degrees for thorough visual image analysis by a TSA officer. If a bag requires further screening, TSA officers will inspect it to ensure that a threat item is not contained inside. 

This technology represents an improved security threat detection capability for the screening of contents of checked bags while at the same time reducing a touchpoint during the pandemic.

CT technology should result in TSA officers needing to open fewer checked bags. For the most up-to-date information about CT and to view a video of the X-ray monitor, visit TSA’s Computed Tomography page.

###