The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is using a new credential authentication technology (CAT) at Albany International Airport.
This new technology is designed to enhance checkpoint screening capabilities.
It can confirm the validity of a traveller’s identification (ID), their flight information and flight status in near real-time.
It is said to minimise touchpoints by eliminating the need for travellers to hand over their electronic or physical boarding pass at the security checkpoint.
However, they are required to submit their ID to the TSA officer, who will insert it to the CAT unit for authentication. Travellers under the age of 18 years and those with ID issues may be requested to show their boarding passes.
The implementation of CAT units is expected to help TSA better identify fraudulent documents at the security checkpoint.
TSA Upstate New York federal security director Bart Johnson said: “The technology enhances detection capabilities for identifying fraudulent documents such as driver’s licences and passports at checkpoints and increases efficiency by automatically verifying passenger identification.
“The system will also confirm the passenger’s flight status in near real time through a secured connection.”
A CAT unit, which is designed to verify different types of IDs, features a passport reader, an ID card reader, a federal personal identity verification ID card reader, a monitor, a stand and an ultraviolet light.
Meanwhile, in a separate development, Denver International Airport (DEN) has launched a new pilot programme dubbed VeriFLY.
DEN worked closely with TSA to develop the programme to enable health-conscious passengers to move safely through security and to their gate with minimum contact.
The programme allows passengers to use the VeriFLY app to book the TSA screening in advance of their flight.
