In partnership with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Denver International Airport has become the first US airport to operate next-generation Enhanced Advanced Imaging Technology (eAIT) for checkpoint screening. The new equipment has updated detection capabilities and the potential to speed checkpoint screening operations and increase throughput.
“Our strong partnership with the TSA has allowed us to once again bring in new screening technology to Denver that will improve the passenger screening process while enhancing security,” said airport CEO Kim Day. “Much like the new automated screening lanes installed this fall, we will test this new screening equipment in hopes of a wider implementation once the new screening area on Level 6 is constructed.”
Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) safely screens passengers for metallic and non-metallic threats including weapons, explosives and other objects concealed under layers of clothing without physical contact to help TSA keep the traveling public safe. This technology uses non-ionizing radio-frequency energy in the millimeter spectrum, which is safe and meets national health and safety standards.
The new eAIT system has several benefits, but most noticeable to passengers will be the relaxed stance, which means that instead of holding their arms over their heads, they can keep them down and close to their sides. The actual scan takes less than a second, and the addition of two screening stations allow those who need additional screening to move to a separate area until they are cleared by a TSA officer.
Denver International has installed one new eAIT system in the north security checkpoint next to the new automated screening lanes installed in September 2018. Both systems are being tested and could eventually be implemented at all screening locations once the airport’s Great Hall renovation project is completed in late 2021.