New Canine Screening Program Launched at San Antonio Airport

The launch of the new canine screening program at San Antonio Airport adds another layer of security and passenger protection to the airport. The airport has launched the program in partnership with the Transport Security Administration (TSA) and the TSA Canine Training Program. “The TSA canine program is a great example of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies working together to protect the travelling public”, said Jesus Presas, TSA Federal Security Director for the San Antonio International Airport. 

Travelers through San Antonio International Airport will begin to notice these amazing canine teams at security checkpoints as early as fall just in time for holiday travel.

Capabilities of the Dogs Selected for the Canine Screening at San Antonio Airport

The dogs selected for PSCs come directly from TSA’s Canine Training Facility in San Antonio. It trains canines, and their handlers detect explosive material on passengers and in their luggage. These teams undergo intensive training for 12-16 weeks and must prove their proficiency in four key elements, including

1. The canine’s ability to recognize explosives.
2. The handler’s ability to interpret the canine’s behavioral changes.
3. The handler’s ability to do logical and systematic searches
4. The team’s ability to locate the odor and the source of the explosive

The Role of PSC Teams in US’s Security

In the US, over 1,000 TSA canine teams work to cover the security aspect at airports, maritime systems, and mass transit systems. They have turned out to be the most effective and efficient way to detect explosives. TSA employs a range of canine breeds for the detection of explosives. These breeds must pass strict pre-acceptance standards to ensure they have the necessary temperament, health standards, and characteristics to handle the stressful job of explosive detection.

These dogs look beautiful and may appear friendly. However, travelers are asked not to engage with them or distract them, as they shoulder the critical responsibility of keeping the airport safe. The teams can quickly move through crowds sniffing for explosive odors on passengers and their luggage. In the case the dog alerts its handler to the presence of explosive material, TSA will adhere to the established procedures to check and resolve the alarm.

About San Antonio Airport

San Antonio International Airport is located eight miles north of Downtown, has three runways, and is spread across 2,305 acres. It handles an average of 260 daily departures and arrivals at its 24 gates. The launch of PSC at the San Antonio Airport is considered a significant step toward increasing the airport’s security and passenger protection. To know more about the airport, click here.

 

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