The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has installed a new computed tomography (CT) security screening unit at Salem Municipal Airport (SLE) to screen the checked baggage of departing travelers.

The new unit means TSA officers will only conduct a physical inspection of a traveler’s checked baggage if it triggers an alert about a potential security threat.

The scanner uses CT technology to create a 3D image of the contents of checked baggage. The system uses a sophisticated algorithm to detect explosives, including liquid explosives, and other security threats. It is capable of checking suitcases, rolling luggage, duffel bags, backpacks, golf bags and other items that travelers commonly bring to the airport.

Screening of checked baggage at SLE was previously performed manually by TSA officers using explosive trace detection devices. TSA officers previously had to open each checked bag and inspect it for traces of explosives before releasing it for transport. The new CT system automatically screens baggage and notifies TSA officers if anything inside requires closer inspection.

According to the TSA, travelers departing SLE with checked baggage will still need to go to the ticket counter to have their bag tagged by the airline, then take their tagged bag to the new checked baggage scanner, where TSA officers will place the bag on the belt to be processed through the CT scanner while the passenger proceeds to the security checkpoint.

Read more about TSA’s plans to install additional security equipment at airports across the U.S. Here.