The first pair of a new generation of electronic screening machines for weapons and explosives will be installed within weeks at Bradley International Airport, authorities said Tuesday.
The federal Department of Homeland Security and federal stimulus money will pay for seven image scanners that can screen without touching airline passengers for metal and nonmetal objects concealed beneath clothing, according to Sens. Chris Dodd and Joe Lieberman, and Rep. John B. Larson.
The advanced imaging technology equipment uses “backscatter” technology that projects low-level X-ray beams to create a reflection of the body. The resulting image is seen by a Transportation Security Administration officer stationed nearby. AIT screening is optional for air travelers.
The first two machines – priced between $130,000 and $170,000 each — will be installed at Bradley within two weeks, officials said.
