U.S. Department of Homeland Security

08/20/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/21/2026 17:41

Automated Passenger-Bag Reconciliation System For Airline Security Screening

This patent application describes a system and method for improving airline security by ensuring that checked baggage is flown only if its owner boards the plane. If a passenger misses their flight, the system automatically identifies their bags and displays information for review by a Transportation Security Officer (TSO). The TSO can view images of bags, determine whether they are safe to fly without the passenger, and update the system accordingly. If a bag is not cleared, it is removed from the aircraft. The process uses barcodes, bag tag numbers, and computerized screening images to streamline decision-making and communication between airlines and security staff. This approach helps prevent delays, supports compliance with security regulations, and keeps flights secure by ensuring that unaccompanied bags are properly handled.

For a more detailed description download the PDF below.

U.S. Department of Homeland Security published this content on August 20, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on August 21, 2026 at 23:41 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]