TSA Introduces New Credential Authentication Technology Unit at Rochester Airport

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has announced the implementation of new credential authentication technology at the Fredrick Douglas Greater Rochester International Airport. The new technology, known as CAT-2, is the latest generation of units designed to verify travelers’ identities.

One of the key features of the CAT-2 units is a camera that captures an in-person photo of the traveler, allowing for a more efficient and secure identity verification process. This technology eliminates the need for travelers to exchange boarding passes with TSA officers, as the touchless tablets with cameras compare the traveler’s in-person photo to their photo ID.

Bart R. Johnson, TSA’s Federal Security Director for Upstate New York, emphasized the importance of identity verification in the security screening process. He stated, “This technology enhances detection capabilities for identifying fraudulent IDs such as driver’s licenses and passports at a checkpoint, and it increases efficiency by automatically verifying a passenger’s identification. We want to ensure that you are who you say you are.”

The implementation of CAT-2 technology comes as TSA prepares for what is expected to be the busiest summer travel season ever, with an anticipated nearly 3 million passengers on Friday, May 24 alone. Despite the new technology, passengers are still required to check in with their airline and present their boarding passes at the gate before boarding their flights.

Overall, the new credential authentication technology at the Fredrick Douglas Greater Rochester International Airport aims to streamline the security screening process and enhance security measures for travelers.