Las Vegas airport to be first airport to test TSA’s self-service screening

TSA and the Department of Homeland Security’s Science and Technology Directorate will start testing its self-service Innovation Checkpoint as of mid-March in Las Vegas’ Harry Reid International Airport. (Photo: AP)

Las Vegas’ Harry Ried International Airport (LAS) has become the first airport to test Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) self-service screening. The aim is for a sufficient passenger screening process to take place, where the Transportation Security Officer will then be redeployed to more elevated security concerns within the airport. However, they will remain on hand to provide pat-downs and assistance where necessary.

Based on trial results, the system will be deployed in other US airports.

Travellers passing through Harry Ried International Airport (LAS) will be some of the first to use TSA’s self-service screening system. Installed within the TSA's 'innovation checkpoint,' passengers will be able to test the new system that will ensure the same rigorous standards are upheld for those using the more traditional security methods.

While the trial period is in Vegas, TSA aims to collect feedback on system performance and design alongside other human factors and cybersecurity. The system hopes to understand and learn how passengers interact with the system and how it can be developed for future iterations.

At the TSA's Systems Integration Facility, the prototype has gone under thorough review to ensure passengers can abide by the step-by-step instructions to screen in their own time. Once passengers have been cleared safely for travel, automated doors open so they can continue their journey.