Seeing Clearly: Security Detection Insights and Trends

The US Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) new requirements for enhanced measures related to personal electronic devices (PEDs) are now fully in swing in a range of last point of departure (LPD) airports globally. As a result, TSA has rolled back a full PED ban previously imposed on airlines operating from select Middle Eastern locations.  

A quick recap of the last six months: TSA first issued a PED ban for select locations, hinting that computed tomography or CT systems at checkpoint could allow electronics to fly. US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Kelly then spoke of a full ban for airlines inbound from foreign locations. Finally, the ban was turned off and airlines and airports hustled to implement additional security procedures with existing and available technology. 

For detection technology solution providers, this uncertainty must be incredibly confusing. Having written two prior blog entries on the topic for regulators and security operators, this final entry focuses on considerations for technology providers as they grapple with an ever-changing landscape.

With the Standard 3 deadline quickly approaching across Europe, airports are grappling with growing passenger traffic combined with increased security threats.

The question is, will Standard 3 requirements—which call for more thorough baggage screening—slow down screening times and increase congestion throughout airports? Not with the right Standard 3-approved explosives detection system (EDS).