If your last flight felt a little different at security, it’s probably because of the TSA’s continued rollout of computed tomography (CT) scanners — 3D imaging machines that are quietly changing what you have to do at the checkpoint.

How many airports have it

As of mid-2026, TSA had installed 1,162 CT scanners across 296 airports nationwide, part of a rollout worth more than $1 billion that’s gradually replacing older 2D X-ray machines. Major hubs already using the technology include JFK, LAX, Chicago O’Hare, Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson, Miami International, Boston Logan, and Newark Liberty, with more airports being added on a rolling basis.

What’s actually better

Unlike older scanners that take a flat image from one or two angles, CT scanners spin around the bag to build a rotating 3D image, giving screeners a much clearer view of what’s packed inside. At lanes with this technology, most travelers no longer need to pull laptops or liquids out of their bags before sending them through — as long as liquids still meet the standard 3-1-1 rule.

The catch: bag size

The new machines have a fixed opening, so carry-ons larger than 22 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches tall may not fit through and could get bumped to checked baggage at the gate. If you travel with an older or oversized carry-on, it’s worth measuring it before your next trip through one of the upgraded checkpoints.

Cameras and photographic film still need to come out of your bag regardless of which scanner you go through, since those materials can be damaged or fogged by the imaging process.