The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has rolled out new security checkpoint scanners at Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ). Computed tomography (CT) X-ray machines are now screening carry-on items at the Sarasota airport.
"This new technology creates such a clear image of a bag’s contents that the system can automatically detect explosives and other threat items by shooting hundreds of images with an X-ray camera spinning around the items to provide TSA officers with a 3-D view of the contents of a carry-on bag," TSA said in a news release.
Along with providing enhanced security, the new scanners allow travelers to leave laptops and other electronic devices in their carry-on bags. Additionally, passengers screened in security lanes
with CT units do not need to remove their travel-sized 3-1-1 liquids, the TSA said.
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The TSA also confirmed that the new CT scanners have smaller entry tunnels than the old machines. Here's what that means for carry-on bag sizes when flying out of the Sarasota airport.
New TSA scanner openings smaller
A Florida TSA spokesperson told FOX 13 that these new scanners have a smaller opening than older scanners, adding that the smaller opening is necessary to make sure the machine works correctly.
"This design is necessary to accommodate the advanced imaging technology and ensure optimal performance," TSA Spokesperson Daniel Velez explained to the outlet. "TSA officers are available to assist travelers with larger items or special needs to help ensure a smooth screening process."
What size carry-on bag fits the new TSA scanners?
The TSA's new scanners measure about 24.5 inches wide and 16.5 inches high, with the depth depending on the belt. According to a report by simpleflying.com, the size that airlines typically allow for carry-on items, which is measured as 22" x 14" x 9", will fit in the new scanners.
"CT units have a slightly smaller entry tunnel, and not all larger carry-on bags will fit into the units. TSA recommends that large carry-on items be checked with the airline," the TSA noted.
Before your next trip, check your airline's size limits first and measure your bags ahead of time to avoid having to check them in.
These Florida airports have the new TSA scanners
In an email to the USA TODAY NETWORK - Florida, the TSA confirmed the new scanners are in use at these Florida airports:
- DAB - Daytona Beach International
- DJT - President Donald J Trump International
- ECP - Northwest Florida Beaches International
- EYW - Key West International
- FLL - Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International
- GNV - Gainesville Regional
- JAX - Jacksonville International
- LAL - Lakeland Linder International
- MCO - Orlando International
- MIA - Miami International
- MLB - Melbourne Orlando International
- PIE - St Pete-Clearwater International
- PNS - Pensacola International
- RSW - Southwest Florida International
- SFB - Orlando Sanford International
- SRQ - Sarasota-Bradenton International
- TLH - Tallahassee International
- TPA - Tampa International
- VPS - Eglin AFB/Destin-Ft Walton Beach
Only two Florida airports do not have the new TSA scanners: PGD - Punta Gorda and VRB - Vero Beach Regional.
Kim Luciani is a journalist for the USA TODAY Network-Florida's Audience team. Samantha Neely is a trending reporter for the USA TODAY NETWORK-Florida, covering pop culture, theme parks, breaking news and more. You can get all of Florida’s best content directly in your inbox each weekday by signing up for the free newsletter, Florida TODAY, at https://floridatoday.com/newsletters.
This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Sarasota airport has new TSA scanners. What that means for travelers
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