TSA’s New 3D CT Scanners and Facial Recognition Tech Bring Unexpected Drawbacks for Air Travelers

The Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) rollout of advanced 3D Computed Tomography (CT) baggage scanners and automated facial recognition systems is drawing mixed reactions from flyers.
While the new technology speeds up checkpoint lines by allowing passengers to keep electronics and liquids inside carry-on bags, it introduces several unexpected hurdles. The 3D scanners feature smaller entry tunnels that catch oversized or overstuffed bags and can permanently damage unprocessed photographic film. Meanwhile, expanded use of facial recognition has sparked privacy concerns, with reports indicating that passengers who choose to opt out of biometric scans frequently face friction and inconsistent treatment from security personnel.