Starting Wednesday, airline passengers at Memphis International Airport will have to put all electronics larger than a cell phone in a separate bin as they’re screened by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
The new procedures were announced earlier this year. Under them, travelers will now have to place any electronic devices like e-readers, tablets, and more into bins with nothing on top of them or below. It’s the way laptops have been screened for years and the TSA says the new procedure will help its agents get a clearer X-ray image.
“TSA must constantly enhance its security procedures to stay ahead of evolving threats,” TSA spokesman Mark Howell said in a statement. “TSA is committed to raising the baseline for aviation security and we appreciate the cooperation of the traveling public in this endeavor.”
The agency said passengers may experience more bag checks. But the procedures are hoped to clear carry-on bags quicker.
“The simple step of separating personal electronic items for screening allows TSA officers to more closely focus on resolving alarms and stopping terror threats,” said Howell.
The new security measures do not apply to passengers enrolled in TSA PreCheck using PreCheck lanes.