TSA and DHS to prototype self-service screening at Las Vegas
The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) have unveiled a prototype checkpoint technology, the self-service screening system, at Harry…
The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) have unveiled a prototype checkpoint technology, the self-service screening system, at Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas.
TSA PreCheck passengers at TSA’s Innovation Checkpoint will be the first travelers to have the option to use the new system starting in mid-March, when the testing begins. The same rigorous screening standards and rules required of passengers using the TSA PreCheck lanes apply to the self-screening lane.
The self-service screening system is a prototype technology that TSA and S&T designed, developed and tested initially in a laboratory setting at the TSA Systems Integration Facility in Arlington, Virginia. The prototype has a video monitor that provides step-by-step instructions for passengers to complete screening at their own pace.
Self-screening
Once passengers have completed the required screening process and are cleared for travel, automated exit doors open so travellers can gather their belongings and head to their flights. While there is minimal assistance from Transportation Security Officers (TSO), TSOs will be available for assistance as needed.
TSOs will work to ensure TSA PreCheck passengers using the self-screening lane are following security protocols. The aim is to provide a near self-sufficient passenger screening process while enabling passengers to directly receive on-person alarm information and allow for the passenger self-resolution of those alarms to reduce instances where a pat-down or secondary screening procedure would be necessary.
During the assessment in a live checkpoint environment, TSA will collect passenger feedback and data on the system’s performance, design, cybersecurity, human factors and other variables to inform future design requirements and system development and to understand how passengers and TSOs interact with the system. The data collected will inform design, development, feasibility and viability decisions for future iterations.
“We are constantly looking at innovative ways to enhance the passenger experience, while also improving security,” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske.
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