There is light at the end of the tunnel for those who dread long queues at airport security (one of the areas where most travelers are created equal). The wait – literal in this case – may be over, thanks to next-generation screening technologies that are automated and set to be rolled out at selected airports in the United States. Of course, given the well-publicised failures of the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in this area, we reserve judgment until we see the results.

The screening that will be introduced at Chicago O’Hare, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles and Miami, is expected to cut down 30% of the waiting times. The technology is the result of a collaboration between American Airlines and TSA.

The beauty of the technology, currently being tested in Phoenix, Arizona, is that travelers will not have to worry about any hassles at security. Special screening lanes mean that travelers will not have to remove the bags of liquids or numerous electronic devices on them at the conveyor.

“We are proud to be working collaboratively with the TSA to support next generation screening technology at five of our hubs this fall,” said American Airlines Chief Operating Officer Robert Isom. “These state-of-the-art lanes, along with new detection technology that will be tested in Phoenix, will enhance security effectiveness and efficiency, while improving the customer experience.”

These are promises we have heard before but we remain optimistic that TSA isn’t over-promising this time…