Columbia, SC (WACH)- The Columbia Metropolitan Airport Transportation Security Administration (TSA) today announced 23 airports which are set to receive recently purchased millimeter wave Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) units. The machines will be deployed with new automated target recognition (ATR) software designed to enhance privacy by eliminating passenger-specific images while improving throughput capabilities and streamlining the checkpoint screening process.

"Advanced Imaging Technology is currently the best available technology to detect non-metallic threat items concealed under layers of clothing," said TSA Assistant Administrator for Security Capabilities Robin Kane.

"This deployment enhances not only aviation security, but also the safety and security of the traveling public."

Columbia Metro is just one of 23 airports set to get one of the controversial so-called "body scanners". Others include airports in Augusta and Charleston.  The security director for Columbia Metro expects their AIT to be operational within a month.