The potential of CT scanners to detect threat items that older X-ray machines might miss is gaining attention. However, using this technology for all carry-on bags could be misguided.

A traveler progresses through the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) line at Washington Dulles International Airport, as seen in an image by Kylie Cooper (Reuters).

Written by Sheldon H. Jacobson for The Hill, which is known for its nonpartisan coverage of the intersection of government and business matters.

The TSA is planning to widely implement computed tomography (CT) scanning equipment at airport security checkpoints. Unlike the traditional X-ray machines, these advanced devices offer a three-dimensional view of the items in carry-on bags. This capability makes extracting items from bags unnecessary during the scanning process.