Indianapolis International Airport, New Orleans, Bradley, Concord-Padget and Many More: How New Computed Tomography Scanners Are Revolutionizing Airport Security, List is Here

Published on July 20, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

As of 2025, significant advancements in airport security are underway with the deployment of state-of-the-art Computed Tomography (CT) scanners at major U.S. airports. Currently, 255 out of 432 U.S. airports have integrated these cutting-edge scanners, which allow for 3D imaging of carry-on luggage, improving the detection of potential threats.

This upgrade is set to revolutionize airport security by enhancing the screening process and speeding up passenger throughput. Airports like Indianapolis International, Louis Armstrong New Orleans, Bradley International, and Concord-Padgett have already implemented these systems, but full nationwide implementation is expected to take time, with completion projected for 2043.

While the largest airports benefit from these improvements first, smaller airports will have to wait. These new CT scanners not only promise to make the security process more efficient but also offer the potential to ease liquid restrictions, changing the way we travel through security forever.

The Rise of Computed Tomography (CT) Scanners at Airports

Computed Tomography (CT) scanners are not new to the world of medical imaging, but they are now making their way into the airport security world, replacing traditional X-ray machines. Unlike traditional machines that offer a flat, two-dimensional image, CT scanners create three-dimensional, high-resolution images of carry-on baggage. This advanced technology allows security officers to better detect potential threats, such as liquid explosives, by offering a clearer view of the items within each bag.

These scanners work by using X-rays to create cross-sectional images of the contents of a bag, which are then assembled into a 3D model. This technology enables Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers to rotate the images and examine them from different angles, giving them more comprehensive insight into what’s inside luggage. What makes these scanners so valuable is their ability to differentiate between harmful and harmless materials, which is critical for identifying potentially dangerous substances while keeping the screening process efficient.

List of U.S. Airports with CT Scanners Installed or in Progress

How CT Scanners Are Improving Security at U.S. Airports

The introduction of CT scanners to airport security checkpoints has already started to show significant benefits. Not only do these machines improve the accuracy of threat detection, but they also streamline the screening process, making it more efficient and less time-consuming for travelers. The scanners are capable of automatically detecting potential threats like liquid explosives, allowing TSA officers to focus on verifying the details of flagged items rather than manually inspecting every piece of luggage.

The TSA has rolled out these advanced CT scanners at several U.S. airports, with 255 out of 432 airports expected to be equipped with the new technology by 2025. The new scanners allow travelers to leave laptops and liquids in their carry-on bags during screening, which significantly speeds up the process and reduces the need for additional inspections. This shift is especially beneficial for passengers who are often held up by the tedious and time-consuming process of removing liquids, gels, and electronics from their bags.

The Potential to Relax Liquid Restrictions

One of the most exciting prospects of the new CT scanners is their potential to relax the 3-1-1 liquids rule. This rule, which has been in place since 2006, limits passengers to carrying liquids in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less in carry-on luggage. The rule was introduced after a terrorist plot in the UK involved liquid explosives disguised as drinks, and it has remained a major inconvenience for travelers ever since.

However, with the enhanced detection capabilities of the CT scanners, the TSA is now considering easing these restrictions. The machines are capable of identifying potentially dangerous liquids, eliminating the need to restrict the volume of liquids carried on board. While the TSA has not yet made any official announcements about lifting the liquid ban entirely, the deployment of these scanners in more airports suggests that change may be on the horizon. If successful, this change would allow travelers to carry larger bottles of liquids, such as shampoo or water, through security without worrying about them being confiscated.

US Airports May Ease Liquid Restrictions—But Only for Some Travelers

For years, travelers have been burdened with liquid restrictions at airport security checkpoints, often having to discard beverages or toiletries simply because they exceed the 3.4-ounce limit. While the inconvenience is widely acknowledged, the reasons behind this restriction are rooted in security concerns dating back to a thwarted terrorist plot in 2006. However, recent comments from Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem have given travelers hope that they might soon be able to carry larger bottles of liquids and gels aboard planes without worrying about confiscation.

This prospect of change has sparked excitement, but as the process of upgrading airport security systems drags on, travelers need to stay informed about how these changes will impact their airport experiences and whether they will benefit from them in the near future.

Liquid Restrictions: A Security Necessity, or an Ongoing Challenge?

The limitation on liquids was first introduced in 2006 following a thwarted terrorist plot in the United Kingdom, where a group planned to use liquid explosives hidden in drink bottles to down airliners. This led to the establishment of the liquid ban that remains in place today. Although the threat has subsided, security experts remain vigilant, fearing that similar vulnerabilities could emerge. As a result, security agencies like the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) continue to err on the side of caution.

Despite the challenges, there have been significant advancements in screening technology. The introduction of CT (computed tomography) scanners is one such development that has provided more detailed scans of passengers’ belongings, allowing security officials to more accurately differentiate between harmless items and potential threats. Yet, the rollout of these new scanners has been slow. Out of 432 airports in the U.S., only 255 are equipped with the advanced CT scanners as of 2023, and it could be years before all U.S. airports have them installed.

TSA’s Security Advancements and the Liquid Ban Debate

The TSA has expressed a commitment to improving the airport experience for travelers while maintaining safety standards. Secretary Noem’s comments regarding potential changes to the liquid policy have sparked hope for many. She mentioned that the TSA has implemented a “multilayered” security process that may soon allow travelers to bring more liquids through security.

However, security experts caution that the change is still premature. While the introduction of advanced CT scanners will certainly help improve the efficiency of security screenings, some argue that more time is needed before fully lifting liquid restrictions at all airports. Jeff Price, a professor of aviation security, believes that additional layers of security still need to be deployed before liquid bans can be safely relaxed.

Airport Infrastructure: An Ongoing Challenge for Nationwide Policy

The biggest hurdle in relaxing the liquid restrictions at airports across the U.S. is the uneven distribution of new screening technology. Many airports, especially smaller ones, still use older X-ray machines that cannot differentiate between potentially dangerous and harmless liquids. Without upgrading these machines to the more advanced CT technology, fully lifting the ban on liquids would create confusion. Travelers might find that they can bring larger bottles of liquids through security at one airport but have their beverages confiscated at another.

The challenge is compounded by the cost and logistics of installing these CT scanners. The machines, which can cost upwards of $2 million each, are much larger than traditional X-ray machines and require airport infrastructure to be reinforced. Some airports have had to redesign their security areas to accommodate the new machines. As a result, the installation of these systems is expected to be completed only at the largest airports by 2030, and smaller airports may not see these upgrades until much later.

The Evolution of Airport Security: Shoes and Liquids

While the debate over liquids continues, another policy change implemented by TSA has already improved the airport experience for travelers: the relaxing of the shoe removal policy. After the 2001 “shoe bomber” attempt, travelers were required to remove their shoes at security checkpoints, a rule that many found cumbersome. In 2023, the TSA announced that passengers at certain airports could now keep their shoes on during screenings, a decision that has been welcomed by many.

While this change has been positive, the relaxation of the liquid ban remains a complex issue that involves not just new technology but also considerations of timing, funding, and logistical challenges. It’s clear that the TSA is committed to improving the passenger experience, but security still needs to remain the top priority.

The Future of Liquid Policy: What Travelers Can Expect

The prospect of relaxing the liquid restrictions may be tantalizing, but travelers need to be prepared for gradual changes. The timeline for nationwide implementation of new screening technologies and more relaxed liquid policies remains unclear, with TSA officials noting that it could take decades before all U.S. airports are fully equipped with the necessary systems.

For now, travelers can expect to continue following the current rules when flying from most airports. Those traveling from larger airports with advanced screening technology may see some improvements, including shorter security lines and more relaxed policies for liquids. However, until all airports are equipped with these systems, it is advisable to follow the TSA’s existing guidelines to avoid the inconvenience of confiscated items.

What You Can Do Now: Tips for Efficient Travel

While the wait for the new liquid policies continues, there are steps travelers can take to streamline their airport experience. One of the easiest ways to avoid issues with the liquid ban is to pack your carry-on bag in a way that minimizes the number of liquids you need to carry. Consider purchasing travel-sized toiletries, which comply with TSA’s 3.4-ounce rule, and use reusable bottles to store essential items.

Another tip is to consider checking in with your airline ahead of time to confirm the security procedures at your departure airport. This can save you time and hassle once you arrive at the airport. Additionally, opting for TSA PreCheck can expedite the process, allowing you to bypass many of the lengthy lines and enjoy a faster, more efficient screening experience.

Looking Ahead to a Better Airport Experience

The potential relaxation of the liquid ban at U.S. airports is an exciting prospect for frequent flyers, offering a glimpse of a future where airport security is quicker, more efficient, and less inconvenient. However, as airport infrastructure and screening technology continue to evolve, passengers need to be patient and prepared for gradual changes.

While the new rules aren’t ready just yet, travelers can still benefit from the ongoing improvements in security technology, such as CT scanners, which promise to make the airport experience more seamless. In the meantime, following TSA guidelines and staying informed about any updates will ensure a smoother journey through security checkpoints. As airports continue to modernize, the hope is that the day will soon come when you can carry more liquids and enjoy a more relaxed, stress-free travel experience.

Why It’s Not Happening Everywhere Just Yet

While the benefits of CT scanners are clear, the full implementation of this technology across all U.S. airports will take time. The machines are expensive, with each unit costing over $2 million, and they require significant upgrades to airport infrastructure to accommodate their size. Many airports, particularly smaller ones, do not have the space or the financial resources to install these scanners at every security checkpoint.

The rollout of the new technology is expected to take years, with the TSA aiming to have all major U.S. airports equipped with CT scanners by 2030, and smaller airports possibly not receiving these upgrades until as late as 2043. This extended timeline means that travelers will need to adjust their expectations depending on which airport they’re flying from. Larger airports may see more lenient security measures, such as relaxed liquid restrictions, while smaller airports may continue to enforce the old rules for years to come.

Overcoming Challenges: Cost, Space, and Training

The road to full implementation is not without challenges. The cost of each CT scanner, which exceeds $2 million, is just one of the hurdles airports face in upgrading their security systems. Beyond the financial costs, the physical space required for the machines poses another obstacle. CT scanners are much larger than the traditional X-ray machines, and in many airports, the security lanes are not built to accommodate such large equipment. In some cases, airports have had to reinforce floors and redesign security areas to fit the new machines.

In addition to the logistical and financial challenges, airport security officers must undergo extensive training to effectively use the new CT technology. While the scanners offer more detailed images, they also require officers to interpret complex 3D data accurately. This training process can take time, and in the interim, some airports may struggle to maintain the level of security required to keep passengers safe.

The Future of Airport Security and Passenger Experience

As the new CT scanners continue to roll out across the U.S., travelers can expect a more streamlined and efficient airport experience. The technology not only enhances security by providing better detection of potential threats but also reduces the burden on passengers. By allowing travelers to keep liquids and laptops in their carry-on bags, the new scanners save time and create a less stressful travel experience.

However, the transition to these advanced machines will take years, and passengers must continue to adhere to the current liquid restrictions until the technology becomes widespread. While the prospect of relaxing the liquid rules is promising, it’s important for travelers to stay informed and adjust their travel plans accordingly.

In the long run, the widespread adoption of CT scanners at airports will likely pave the way for other improvements in airport security. As the technology advances and more airports adopt these systems, the travel experience will become smoother, more efficient, and safer for everyone involved.

Conclusion: The Path Toward a More Efficient and Safe Airport Experience

The deployment of advanced CT scanners is a major step forward in improving airport security while making the process more efficient for travelers. While the full implementation of this technology is still years away, its benefits are already clear: better detection of potential threats, faster screening times, and the possibility of relaxed liquid restrictions. As airports upgrade their infrastructure and continue to train security personnel, passengers can look forward to a more seamless, safe, and convenient travel experience. The future of airport security is here, and it promises to make flying easier and more secure than ever before.