The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is testing modified screening procedures for passengers 75 and older.
These are similar to those tested and implemented in the fall of 2011 for passengers age 12 and under. They include no longer removing shoes and light outerwear, permitting a second scan through advanced imaging technology to clear any anomalies, as well as a greater use of explosives trace detection.
Beginning Monday, TSA will test these measures at the following airports:
- Chicago O’Hare (ORD): Security Checkpoint 3
- Denver International (DEN): South Checkpoint/USA Flag Checkpoint
- Orlando International (MCO): West Checkpoint
- Portland International (PDX): ABC Checkpoint
TSA said these changes in protocol for passengers 75 and older could ultimately reduce – though not eliminate – pat-downs that would have otherwise been conducted to resolve anomalies. If anomalies are detected during security screening that cannot be resolved through other procedures, passengers may be required to remove their shoes to complete the screening process.
TSA will consider broader implementation if the test is successful.