The threat from explosive devices to U.S. commercial aviation came into focus with the 1988 bombing of Pan Am flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland.  Since that time, there have been numerous attempts to destroy aircraft with improvised explosive devices (IEDs) including attempts by suicide bombers to smuggle IEDs through aviation checkpoints.

The Department of Homeland Security is focused on detecting and preventing such threats from reaching their targets. S&T is developing effective techniques to protect our citizens and our country’s infrastructure, including those in the aviation sector, against the effects of explosives by seeking innovative approaches in detection and in countermeasures.  

The Screening at Speed Apex builds upon this mission, specifically focusing on developing the technologies and framework for an Aviation Checkpoint of the Future that detects smaller threats more reliably and is capable of distinguishing potential homemade explosive threats from common items carried by travelers.   S&T works closely with the Transportation Security Administration to ensure our research and development is aligned with TSA’s screening requirements and timeline.

Vision for the Future

The Aviation Checkpoint of the Future will be fully capable of efficiently detecting threats to aviation security while minimizing the inconvenience to passengers.   S&T envisions a future where passengers approach the checkpoint and place their carry-on items on a conveyer belt leading to an enhanced x-ray device with automatic threat recognition software.  Passengers walk through a screening portal without having to take off their shoes or coats or remove their laptops and liquids from their bags.   If the screening portal identifies a potential threat on a passenger or with a carry-on item, a non-invasive, secondary inspection may be required.

Transportation security officers at the checkpoint will spend less time searching complicated images and more time observing and assisting passengers and resolving alarms identified by automatic threat recognition software. 

This new system will strengthen security, expedite passenger and carry-on baggage screening, and provide a more comfortable and convenient travel experience for passengers.