TSA launches imaging technology at Yuma International Airport

The transportation security administration (TSA) announced today an advanced imaging technology (AIT) unit at the Yuma International Airport is now operational.

It is currently the best available technology to detect items concealed under layers of clothing. The machine scans passengers for weapons, explosives and other illegal objects banned from being taken on a plane. The software is also designed to enhance privacy by using an universal avatar to display a passenger’s body.

The AIT machine costs $150,000 to $175,000 per unit. Nico Melendez, a TSA spokesperson says it’s important that these machines are in regional airports like Yuma because passengers would not be screened again upon boarding connecting flights; That may pose a risk to other passengers and crew.

Before the AIT machine was installed, passengers flying out of Yuma International Airport had to walk through a metal detector before boarding. The TSA is currently in the process of installing these machines in other smaller airports around the state of Arizona.

For more information about AIT, you can visit www.tsa.gov/ait