The credential authentication technology (CAT) units verify the validity of passenger’s IDs. Credit: Tampa International Airport.

Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at Tampa International Airport in the US has started to use new authentication technology to enhance the passenger screening experience.

The airport features nine new credential authentication technology (CAT) units, with at least one for each airside.

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TSA federal security director for TPA Kirk Skinner said: “This state-of-the-art technology improves upon TSA’s real-time detection of fraudulent identification documents such as driver’s licences and passports at checkpoints and increases efficiency by automatically verifying passenger identification.”

The CAT unit will scan the traveller’s ID, which will then inform the officer of the ID’s validity. It verifies the passenger’s identity and flight status, and checks for fraudulence.

The unit also checks if the passenger has been pre-screened by the airline agent, meaning that passengers will not have to produce their flight boarding passes again.

TPA Operations and Customer Service executive vice-president John Tiliacos said: “This new technology will further enhance the guest experience while ensuring the safety of all.

“We are grateful for our partners at TSA and the exceptional job they do in keeping all of our passengers, guests and employees safe on a daily basis.”

The CAT units can verify different types of ID, including passports, military common access cards and retired military ID cards.

Last month, TSA deployed CAT units at Pittsburgh International Airport.

In a separate development, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has announced the availability of personal protective equipment (PPE) in vending machines situated in the ticketing areas of the airport terminals.

The vending machines will provide hand sanitiser, face coverings, and gloves. LAX has partnered with Hudson Group and PepsiCo Beverages North America for the installation of the new PPE vending machines.