Aviation Security Technologies and Procedures: Screening Passengers and Baggage

Publication Date: October 2001

Publisher: Library of Congress. Congressional Research Service

Author(s):

Research Area: Government; Transportation

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Abstract:

Following the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, there is intense congressional interest in improving the security screening process for airline passengers and their baggage. In the United States, screening is the responsibility of the airlines, which generally contract the work out to screening companies. The Federal Aviation Administration has regulatory authority, deploys security equipment in airports, and conducts research and development on security technology. The current screening process includes technologies and procedures for screening passengers themselves, their carry-on baggage, and their checked baggage. In each of these areas there are technology options for improving the process. A key issue is the performance of screener personnel. Issues of congressional interest include ways to improve screener performance, possibly including federalization; funding and oversight of the security equipment deployment program; and funding and oversight of security technology development efforts. Congress has begun to consider several bills in this area that have been introduced since the September 11 attacks, as well as Administration proposals and actions. This report will be updated as circumstances warrant.