TSA Introducing Self-Service Screening Technology in Las Vegas

Updated: December 3, 2023, 2:16am CST

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TSA Introducing Self-Service Screening Technology in Las Vegas

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The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is introducing new self-service screening technology for TSA PreCheck travelers. The new process will allow eligible travelers to proceed through screening lanes with little to no intervention by TSA officers, hopefully providing a more seamless screening experience.

Vanderlande Prototype To Launch in LAS

New self-service screening machines from Vanderlande Industries Inc. will debut in Las Vegas’ Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) in January 2024.

The process will only be available to TSA PreCheck members, and won’t be available to the general public. This is because TSA PreCheck passengers have already undergone background checks and screening to be a part of the program and are less of a risk passing through checkpoints.

After debuting in Las Vegas in January 2024, self-service screening could potentially roll out to additional airports depending on its success. The new technology will likely be rolled out slowly, so don’t anticipate this being something you can expect in your home airport anytime soon. Not only do TSA staff at each airport have to undergo special training but the technology and machines are incredibly expensive.

Hot Tip:

Even with the self-service screening process, you’ll still have to follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule, cannot be in possession of a sharp object or weapon, and cannot carry any prohibited items. Check out our full guide to items you can and cannot bring through TSA security.

Self-Service Screening Pods Coming Soon

Micro X self screening pod concept design — Micro-X self-screening pod concept design. Image Credit: Micro-X

Micro-X is developing individual self-screening pods that are scheduled to be tested in 2025. Ideally, multiple pods would be integrated into a single screening lane to accommodate multiple travelers at once.

Passengers will have their carry-on luggage screened and then walk through detectors, first placing items from their pockets in a tray to the side that gets screened separately. After a successful screening, a set of gates would open and the passenger would be allowed to collect their belongings and proceed onwards.

Final Thoughts

The new self-service screening technology debuting at Harry Reid International Airport in January 2024 is incredibly exciting. The prototype aims to speed up the time it takes for passengers to walk through the checkpoint and should offer less interaction between TSA staff and travelers. The rollout of self-screening options to other airports depends on the success of this pilot test, but it is definitely something to look forward to.

Featured Image Credit: Vanderlande

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About James Larounis

James (Jamie) started The Forward Cabin blog to educate readers about points, miles, and loyalty programs. He’s spoken at Princeton University and The New York Times Travel Show and has been quoted in dozens of travel publications.

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