Baggage Screening Problem Causes Flight Delays at Pittsburgh

One jet was stopped on the runway this morning at Pittsburgh International Airport and eight others were delayed when problems with baggage-screening machines caused concern among security officials.

Two machines broke down about 6:30 a.m. but Transportation Security Administration spokesman Darrin Kayser said a technician was tending to both this afternoon.

The problem with the machines appeared to be mechanical, including a failed air conditioning unit on one, Kayser said.

"The issue came up during the morning push on Monday and a lot of bags started coming through," he said. "It took us a little longer than normal to get those screened.

"Out of an abundance of caution we called one plane back to the gate and made sure all the bags on there had been screened."

Baggage on the nine planes was cleared by 8:15 a.m., he said. Delays ranged from three to 90 minutes.

"At no time was there a threat to the traveling public," Kayser said. "The bottom line is just some minor delays and the equipment will be brought back on line."

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