JAX installing new baggage screening system

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Changes are coming to Jacksonville International Airport that could affect your flight routine. The airport is installing a $19 million new baggage screening system that will include updates to equipment and conveyor belts for checked luggage.

These changes won't have a huge impact on travelers but you need to be aware of them because they will add one additional step to your check in process.

"Yeah, it's fine it's like a Zen moment for me. I just plug my headphones in, listen to a bunch of music and try not to get bothered by waiting in lines and stuff," said William Knapp. He's happy to hear JIA is soon getting a new baggage screening system.

The cost of the new system will be $19 million dollars. The federal Transportation Safety Administration will pay for 90% while the Jacksonville Aviation Authority will pay for the remaining 10%. The new system will take about 12 to 14 months to complete.

"The change that will be most noted by passengers is that if you check a bag at the counter you will have to take your bag to the screening equipment- we will call it the backdrop area- instead of leaving it at the ticket counter where currently it just goes onto the conveyor belt and get screened," said Michael Stewart with JAA.

Stewart says JAA doesn't anticipate passengers needing any additional time than they normally would to park, check in and get to their gate. He says passengers won't see the changes but Knapp believes new technology means more efficiency.
"If it makes (traveling) any more efficient, that would be great. The more time you spend waiting when you're in an airport, the more frustrated you get," said Knapp.

The current baggage check system was installed in 2002 – making it 13 years old. The new equipment will feature more up-to-date software to better handle the 4,500 pieces of luggage that the airport checks each day.