TSA awards more than $781M for airport checkpoint CT x-ray scanners

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has awarded two contracts worth a combined $781.2 million to procure and maintain base and full-size Computed Tomography (CT) x-ray systems for scanning carry-on items at airport checkpoints.

This will result in 469 base and 469 full-size systems for TSA’s use at airport checkpoints, beginning this summer. Such scanners use sophisticated algorithms to detect and display 3-D images of weapons, explosives, and other prohibited items concealed in carry-on items. TSA officers on-site can view and rotate the images across three axes to analyze and identify any potential threats.

“These awards are another important step in enhancing aviation security,” TSA Administrator David Pekoske said. “They provide our dedicated frontline officers with one of the best tools available to screen passenger carry-on items and also improves the passenger experience by allowing passengers to keep more items in their carry-on bags during the screening process.”

Analogic base, mid-size and full-size CT systems have been added on the Acceptable Capabilities List and are available for donation through the Capabilities Acceptance Process. Analogic received both of the orders, totaling $781.2 million.

Notably, full-size CT systems feature fully automated screening lanes with parallel divestiture stations, automated bin return, and high threat containment. TSA noted that this would also help with greater and more efficient passenger processing.