The Transportation Security Administration certified a new fully automated Checked Baggage Inspection System to launch with the opening of a new terminal at Montana's Missoula International Airport June 8.
According to a news release, the new system utilizes a network of conveyor belts to move passengers' checked luggage from the airline ticket counter through the security screening process before it arrives at the loading area to be stowed on the airplane.
“We are grateful to our partners at MSO for their investment in a new airport terminal that placed a priority on ensuring TSA had the space to operate as efficiently and effectively as possible as we carry out our security mission,” TSA Federal Security Director for Montana Kristen Simonds said, according to the release “We look forward to continuing this partnership as we together serve the air transportation needs of Missoula and the surrounding communities.”
The Checked Baggage Inspection System uses a total of two explosive detection system units to generate 3-D X-ray images of passengers' luggage, showing the contents of each checked bag. Each explosive detection system unit has the capacity of screening up to 550 bags per hour.
The explosive detection systems will analyze the X-rays to determine if each checked bag is cleared for travel or if it needs further inspection.
