New security procedures will began April 26, at the Great Falls International Airport. The Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) will be deploying a new full-body scanner known as an Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT scanner) in the security checkpoint. The new AIT scanner provides not only state-of-the-art security screening capability but also enhanced customer service for airport passengers.
Passengers screened in the AIT scanner will be required to stand with their hands above their head momentarily while the scan is completed. The TSA agent operating the machine only sees a standardized cartoon image unless the passenger alarms. In addition to enhanced security, the AIT scanner will vastly improve screening for passengers with joint replacements or other medical implants because most of these devices can be processed without the need for a hand search or “pat down.” The Airport expects the number for hand searches will be reduced by half which should result in faster checkpoint processing times.
As a reminder to passengers, our summer flight schedule begins June 1st and we encourage all passengers to arrive 2 hours prior to their flight time. With the introduction of additional flights and much larger aircraft this summer, the security checkpoint will be especially busy during morning flight times. In addition, US airlines now close their flight check-in 30 to 45 minutes before flight time. Arrive early to ensure an enjoyable trip.
