A Closer Look At Your Luggage
he Aviation and Transportation Security Act requires that all luggage checked at U.S. airports be screened by explosive-detection systems by the end of 2002. However, since only two companies make the machines airports need - InVision Technologies of Newark, Calif., and L-3 Communications of New York City - meeting that deadline will be a tall order. Transportation officials are exploring whether InVision and L-3 could franchise their rights to the design so other companies could produce the machines. And Transportation is looking for new technology, as well - DOT received more than 600 proposals for new transportation security equipment, including luggage-screening machines, in response to a Sept. 25 solicitation.
Fewer than 10 percent of the 1 billion bags moved through U.S. airports every year are checked for explosives. Traditional X-ray machines can spot large bricks of plastic explosives hidden in luggage. But terrorists have learned how to roll that material out to the thickness of a piece of cardboard, say detection technology experts. The machines required by the new law can scan the density of an object, which never changes, helping human baggage screeners discern a harmless item from a potential threat.
Post a Comment
To post a comment, you must provide a name and a valid e-mail address. Messages must be limited to 400 words. By using this Service you agree not to post material that is obscene, harassing, defamatory, or otherwise objectionable. Although Government Executive does not monitor comments posted to this site (and has no obligation to), it reserves the right to delete, edit, or move any material that it deems to be in violation of this rule.