American Airlines and the Transportation Security Administration announced a new partnership that will result in passengers spending approximately 30 percent less time in screening. This comes on the heels of recent historic airport security wait times that have resulted in passengers missing flights. TSA and American Airlines will deploy faster, automated security screening lanes and computed tomography scanners in Chicago (ORD), Dallas (DFW), Los Angeles (LAX) and Miami (MIA). Just like in a medical setting, CT scanners take X-rays from different angles, providing more detail than normal X-rays. In an airport setting, they allow screeners to see what travelers may be concealing under clothing as well as within their bodies. “Our foremost priority is the security of the traveling public,” said Peter V. Neffenger, administrator, TSA. “To ensure that we remain up-to-date in an evolving threat environment, the TSA continues to test and deploy state-of-the-art technologies. This collaboration with American Airlines is an important step in enhancing the traveler experience while maintaining effective security.” Passengers bags will also be treated differently with the addition of new automated belts that can separate a bag from the queue if a concern is found, which will keep lines moving more quickly. Larger bins will also be provided, and they’ll be outfitted with Radio Frequency Identification tags to help avoid confusion in lines over whose belongings are whose. “We are proud to be working collaboratively with the TSA to support next generation screening technology at five of our hubs this fall,” said Robert Isom, COO, American Airlines. “These state-of-the-art lanes, along with new detection technology that will be tested in Phoenix, will enhance security effectiveness and efficiency, while improving the customer experience. On behalf of our team members who are working to take care of customers every day, we appreciate the TSA’s partnership in implementing these new innovative technologies.” The pilot program, if successful, could be rolled out at airports around the country. It may also lead to passengers being allowed to leave liquids and laptops in bags, speeding up the process there as well.