New baggage screening equipment coming to Austin airport

AUSTIN (KXAN) — The Austin-Bergstrom International Airport will have new baggage screening equipment online in the coming days, the Transportation Security Administration confirmed.

Currently, AUS has six explosive detection system (EDS) lanes, which are used to scan for explosives or any other non-permitted materials. The equipment behind those lanes were first brought online in 2006.

The TSA told KXAN issues with this kind of equipment typically happens because of factors like the equipment's age and environmental impacts, such as heat. The TSA approved use of new EDS equipment at AUS, and three new lanes are expected to be operational in a few days.

By July, four new lanes will be in operation, the TSA said. Come 2026, that figure is expected to rise to either seven or eight lanes.

Officials added the new equipment is expected to be far more efficient, with extra capacity to help screen more baggage each hour.

"TSA continues to use all available security screening resources to screen travelers’ belongings departing Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)," officials said in an emailed statement to KXAN. "While unexpected equipment issues at AUS may impact operations, TSA is conducting luggage security screening using alternate screening methods. Parts to repair the equipment will arrive today and a maintenance and repair technician will work diligently towards a quick resolution to the matter."

The TSA encouraged travelers to arrive more than two-and-a-half hours prior to their flight's departure and to review whether an item can be included in carry-on luggage before heading to the airport.