Software trouble with the Threat Image Projection system -- a computer program that displays "test images" in luggage scans to keep baggage screeners on their toes -- was the catalyst for evacuating all three airports.
Monday night, the outline of a grenade was visible in a traveler's carry-on bag, sources said. But by the time screeners went for a second look, the passenger, Minnesota trucker Ed Skime, and his black tote were gone.
Hang on a sec: Does this software project "test images" onto actual real pax's bags as implied above? Does this mean during normal non-buggy operation, a screener could think he sees a gun in my bag, and call for a LEO/detention/etc. until they clear the bag? If so,
Or does it project images of fake bags with weapons in them? (which makes some sense)
BTW, the poor guy in MDW who was chased down because they thought he had a grenade didn't even get an apology from TSA, which is in itself an atrocity.
Skime said he was alarmed authorities didn't stop him at the gate and he was able to finish supper while they looked for him.
But the worst of it was being badgered during his weekly Chicago layover, Skime said.
"They didn't do so much as say, 'Sorry,' " he said.
I hold Mark Hatfield and his "lie, deceive, and evade" PR policy personally responsible for that issue.