TSA is developing a body scanner that could screen travelers without an officer present
Read today's edition of Gate Access • June 15, 2026
This release of Gate Access is presented by Blackmon & Bougie. Enjoy this TSA-friendly 3.4-ounce body & room mist, with notes of bergamot, lemon, and geranium, on your next trip. Check it out and use code TRAVEL for additional savings.
I was stunned when I heard the news that a 21-year-old woman was killed after being thrown off a cliff in Brazil during a bungee jump excursion. Honestly, I thought it was one of those fake AI videos, but unfortunately, it turns out to be 100% real.
The entire ordeal was strange. Apparently, the crew forgot to attach the rope to her, leading her to fall 130 feet to her death.
This story actually raises a question I never fully considered. How do we know if these operators are legitimate? It turns out this company was not authorized at all, yet has been operating for years.
This is extremely concerning to me, so I wrote the following story to share important steps every traveler should take before booking excursions: Booking an excursion on vacation? Here’s how to verify the operator is legitimate
On the radar
The FAA says it will temporarily halt arrivals and departures at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport during Independence Day celebrations in Washington, D.C., and that this year's restrictions are expected to last longer than usual due to America 250 events.
JetBlue apologized after a passenger shared a video allegedly showing a rat crawling through overhead cabin panels during a recent flight. While rare, incidents involving rodents typically require aircraft inspections and can lead to maintenance delays, as pests pose both health risks and potential damage to onboard wiring systems.
TSA is developing a new body scanner system that could eventually guide passengers through screening without an officer actively operating the machine.
More insights on the OTA Automated Passenger Screening Gate System, the travel tip of the week, and flight deals below.
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Did you miss last week’s release?
TSA is developing a body scanner that could screen travelers without an officer present
As much as it pains me to say this, because I think about my former colleagues, some of these changes at TSA make sense. Here’s why I believe the new OTA Automated Passenger Screening Gate System is a positive thing for both TSA officers and travelers.