U.S. Customs and Border Protection announced on July 24 the implementation of International Remote Baggage Screening for Qatar Airways’ nonstop Doha–JFK route, in partnership with the Qatar Ministry of the Interior, Qatar Airways, and the New Terminal One at John F. Kennedy International Airport.
“CBP is committed to advancing innovative solutions that enhance both security and the traveler experience,” said Diane J. Sabatino, Executive Assistant Commissioner, Office of Field Operations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection. “The expansion of International Remote Baggage Screening on the Doha–JFK route significantly bolsters our enforcement capabilities. This initiative leverages advanced technology and international partnerships to proactively identify and interdict threats before they reach the U.S. By collaborating with Qatar Airways, the Qatar Ministry of the Interior, and the New Terminal One, we are strengthening our security posture and ensuring that all baggage is rigorously screened to prevent the entry of illicit items and protect the homeland.”
Through this initiative, X-ray images of checked baggage for JFK-bound passengers are captured prior to departure from Hamad International Airport in Doha and transmitted to CBP officers who review them remotely while flights are enroute to New York. According to CBP officials, this approach maintains rigorous security standards while expediting processing for travelers; eligible connecting passengers can proceed directly onward without reclaiming or rechecking their bags unless selected for further inspection.
The project supports CBP’s Airport Modernization strategy by using advanced technology alongside international collaboration as a business model aimed at strengthening border security while improving passenger experience. The $9.5 billion New Terminal One at JFK has been designed specifically to support such next-generation border processing technologies.
CBP stated that expanding IRBS complements broader modernization efforts like Enhanced Passenger Processing at JFK—part of a larger plan focused on multifaceted technological innovation within Federal Inspection Services areas across U.S. airports—and aims ultimately to create one of America’s most technologically advanced international arrival environments.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection describes itself as America’s largest law enforcement organization, with more than 70,000 personnel working nationwide on ground, air, and sea operations dedicated to safe travel/trade enforcement as well as national economic prosperity.