TSA Deploys New Checkpoint Screening Equipment to Liberal Airport

 

Liberal– The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has installed the latest checkpoint screening technology at Liberal Mid-America Regional Airport (LBL).

Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) safely screens passengers for metallic and non-metallic threats including weapons, explosives and other objects concealed under layers of clothing without physical contact. The state-of-the-art unit deployed to Liberal is a second generation machine with a smaller footprint, known as the AIT-2.

Every AIT unit has automated target recognition software, which is designed to enhance passenger privacy by creating a generic, computer generated outline that is identical for all travelers. If the body scanner detects a concealed item on the traveler, a yellow box appears on the generic outline. This box identifies where the TSA officer needs to conduct any follow-up screening.

“This technology makes the screening process more efficient for passengers flying out of Liberal and reduces the need for pat-downs,” said TSA Kansas Federal Security Director Jay Brainard. “It’s another tool to keep passengers safe, and helps us stay ahead of current and evolving threats.”

“I’m happy to see the technology is keeping pace with the larger airports,” said Liberal Airport Manager Debbie Giskie. “This will provide the ability to streamline the boarding process.”

AIT units do not use x-rays. Instead, units are equipped with millimeter wave technology, which uses harmless electromagnetic waves to perform a single scan. The technology meets all known national and international health and safety standards. In fact, the energy emitted by millimeter wave technology is 1,000 times less than the international limits and guidelines.

The unit was installed on April 28, 2017.