TSA Changes Create 'New Normal' For Travelers

Going through the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security checkpoint is typically one of the most stressful and often frustrating aspects of commercial air travel. However, some recent changes have made that process a bit easier for travelers, as one expert points out.

Over the past several years, the TSA has been rolling out its new CT scanners to replace the conventional X-ray scanners it used for decades previously. The result has been improved security and efficiency at the airport security checkpoint while reducing stress for travelers.

CT Scans vs. X-Rays

For decades, the TSA used conventional X-ray scanners at its security checkpoints. While these scanners did provide a look into the luggage that was placed into the scanners, they produced a relatively simple two-dimensional image.

The new CT scanners, meanwhile, produce a much more thorough three-dimensional image for TSA officers to look at, as Steven Walker of Simple Flying points out.

"The new generation of CT scanners works differently and is changing the airport experience," Walker wrote this week. "Similar to the technology used in medical imaging, these systems create detailed three-dimensional images that security officers can rotate, zoom, and inspect from multiple angles. The improved visibility allows screeners to analyze the contents of a bag more effectively without requiring passengers to separate many common items."

While this obviously improves security, it also improves the entire experience for travelers.

'A New Normal'

As Walker writes, the new technology has created a "new normal" for travelers, making the entire airport security experience a little better and a little less stressful.

With the traditional X-ray scanners, travelers typically had to remove their laptops and liquids from their carry-on luggage when going through the security checkpoint. This impacted the way they packed their bags and obviously took extra time at the security checkpoint.

With the new CT scanners, however, that's a thing of the past.

"Passengers at equipped checkpoints are increasingly allowed to leave laptops, tablets, cameras, and approved liquids inside their carry-on bags. That shift changes packing behavior in subtle ways," Walker wrote. "Travelers no longer need to organize their belongings around checkpoint convenience, and electronics can be packed wherever they fit best rather than being positioned for rapid removal. Meanwhile, toiletry kits can remain buried inside luggage instead of occupying a dedicated easy-access compartment."

More than that, the new technology improves efficiency, which reduces wait times at airport security.

"The change also reduces congestion around the conveyor belt, with fewer people stopping to unpack and repack bags, meaning fewer bottlenecks, helping security lines move more efficiently during busy travel periods," Walker wrote.

It's worth noting that every airport is different and the new CT scanners are not universally available throughout the United States. So for now, there's a chance that you'll still have to remove your devices and liquids when going through airport security.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Jun 19, 2026, where it first appeared in the Travel section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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This story was originally published June 19, 2026 at 3:09 AM.