American Airlines passengers could spend less time in security screening lines at Los Angeles International Airport under a partnership between the airline and the Transportation Security Administration announced Tuesday.
The addition of automated security screening lanes and upgraded screening technology at LAX — and at American Airlines hubs in Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth and Miami — is expected to cut the wait time for passengers by about 30 percent.
“To ensure that we remain up-to-date in an evolving threat environment, TSA continues to test and deploy state-of-the-art technologies,” TSA Administrator Peter Neffenger said. “This collaboration with American Airlines is an important step in enhancing the traveler experience while maintaining effective security.”
Among the planned upgrades is the addition of automated belts that carry bags into X-ray machines, allowing bags with potential threats to be directed to a separate area so bags behind it can continue uninterrupted through the system.
American and TSA also plan to install computed tomography, or CT, scanners as a pilot program at Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix. The scanners are currently used only to screen checked luggage, but the 3D technology could allow passengers to leave liquids and laptops in their bags, reducing hold-ups in the screening line.
“We are proud to be working collaboratively with the TSA to support next-generation screening technology at five of our hubs this fall,” American Airlines COO Robert Isom said. “These state-of-the-art lanes, along with new detection technology that will be tested in Phoenix, will enhance security effectiveness and efficiency, while improving the customer experience.”
The upgrades are expected to be installed by fall.
— City News Service