Houston Airports is proud to unveil eight state-of-the-art Smiths Detection Computed Tomography (CT) Automated Screening Lanes (ASL) at William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), the first and only 5-Star Skytrax airport in North America. Just in time for the holiday travel season, this advanced technology promises a faster and more streamlined screening experience for the 755,000 holiday travelers expected to fly through Hobby Airport between December 19 and January 6.

 The new CT ASL units revolutionize the screening process with high-definition, 3D rotatable imagery. They eliminate the need for passengers to remove electronics and approved liquids from carry-on bags while operators inspect baggage in detail, from every angle. The technology reduces false alarms and improves the accuracy of assessments, making the skies safer for everyone.

"This technology is a game changer," said Jason Smith, assistant federal security director for TSA at Hobby Airport. "From automated bins to advanced imaging, it’s all designed to make the screening process smoother, safer and more efficient for passengers."

The fully automated bin system further enhances efficiency by seamlessly returning bins to the front of the line for the next passenger. This advanced technology not only speeds up the process but also reduces touchpoints, improving both security and passenger satisfaction. 

"Our passengers have shared incredibly positive feedback about the new screening units, and it’s easy to see why," said Jim Szczesniak, director of aviation for Houston Airports. "This is the kind of innovation that defines our commitment to delivering a world-class travel experience. Passengers at Hobby are already benefiting from these improvements, and we’re thrilled to extend this technology to Bush Airport in the near future."

 The installation of these cutting-edge systems completes a four-month project, further positioning Hobby Airport as a leader in passenger experience and innovation. Houston Airports plans to expand the use of similar technology to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) with the opening of its new international terminal in 2025.

In 2018, Bush Airport became the first U.S. airport to implement CT-based screening with remote screening capabilities in Terminals C and D. The technology provided the operational efficiency needed for Houston Airports to close the Terminal E TSA Checkpoint for the construction of a new international terminal.