FAA buys advanced explosives detectors

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration is buying at least 54 - and as many as 100 - advanced explosives detection systems for U.S. airports. The new systems, the CTX 5000 SP from InVision Technologies Inc. of Foster City, Calif., uses computer axial tomography and X-rays to automatically examine carry-on or checked luggage and issue an alarm when it detects explosives or other suspected contraband. InVision officials will deliver the systems to airports within the next two years under the minimum-$52 million contract. The CTX 5000 is the only FAA-certified explosives detection system. - J.K.