Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands — Friday, 27 February 2026: The Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority (TCIAA) is taking a major step forward in its commitment to world-class travel. Starting 1st March 2026, passengers will experience a faster, more seamless security process thanks to the rollout of new Explosive Trace Detection (ETD) machines across the islands’ airports.
The newly arrived, industry-leading detection systems (the same high-standard technology used in the world’s major international aviation hubs), represent the latest generation in trace detection technology, moving the TCIAA away from manual, time-consuming searches and toward a high-tech approach that respects passenger’s time and comfort.
What this means for Travellers?
Keep Your Shoes On: In a major win for passenger convenience, travellers at the Howard Hamilton International Airport and Norman B. Saunders
International Airport will no longer be required to remove their shoes during screening (unless wearing bulky footwear). Note, however, Security Officers retain the authority to request shoe removal, when necessary, as part of ongoing security protocols.
Less Invasive Screening: The new ETD technology allows security teams to detect safety risks with incredible precision, significantly reducing the need for physical pat-downs and manual bag inspections.
Faster Lines: High-tech detection means fewer delays at checkpoints, helping travellers get through security an on to their flights more efficiently.
“The introduction of this advanced ETD technology represents a meaningful step forward in strengthening aviation security across the Turks and Caicos Islands,” said Hon. Arlington Musgrove, Minister of Physical Planning and Infrastructure Development, Ports Authority, and Airports Authority.
“These upgrades not only enhance our detection capabilities but also improve the overall passenger experience by making our screening processes more efficient and less intrusive. We remain committed to safeguarding our airports while delivering world-class service.”
Selvyn Hawkins, Chief Executive Officer for the TCIAA, noted that this rollout is only the beginning.
“We are always looking for ways to get better,” said Hawkins. This deployment is one step in a larger strategic plan to overhaul and improve our security technology infrastructure. Our goal is to ensure that our airports are not only safe but also a point of pride for our islands. The public can expect to see even more improvements across our network very soon, as our strategic plan calls for a continuous investment in innovation and infrastructure.”
The TCIAA thanks the public for their continued cooperation as these new procedures are introduced. These upgrades reflect a commitment to a “security-first” culture that values the comfort and time of every traveller.