The TSA has unveiled a prototype self-service screening system at its Innovation Checkpoint at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas.
The new technology will be trialed on TSA PreCheck passengers with a goal of determining if the system, or portions of it, work well enough to deploy more broadly.
"We are constantly looking at innovative ways to enhance the passenger experience while also improving security," TSA administrator David Pekoske said in a prepared remark. "This self-service prototype allows our trusted travelers to complete the screening process at their own pace. Testing at the Innovation Checkpoint in Las Vegas gives us an opportunity to collect valuable user data and insights and explore opportunities to apply parts of the prototype to other airport security checkpoints."
Users of the technology place their belongings onto a screening belt just as they do at standard TSA checkpoints.
However, TSA officers aren't standing by to provide instructions and to assist. Instead, instructions are provided by video monitors located above the belt. Travelers who have questions can speak with an agent via video interface.
After dropping their belongings, flyers enter an automated body-scanning machine, which provides step-by-step instructions. If the machine identifies objects on a person, it will alert the individual to return to the bag-screening belt to remove those objects before re-entering to be screened again.
In the meantime, TSA workers sitting in a remote location are able to focus more exclusively on monitoring bag-screening images for contraband.
One aim of the self-service system, said the TSA, is to enable "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 Las Vegas trial, TSA plans to collect passenger feedback and data on the system's performance, design, cybersecurity and other variables to inform future design requirements and system development and to understand how passengers and security officers interact with the system.
"The data collected will inform design, development, feasibility and viability decisions for future iterations," TSA said.
TSA designed the technology in partnership with the Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate.