Qatar Airways passengers traveling from Doha to New York-JFK can now enjoy a smoother and more efficient journey as U. S. Customs and Border Protection has expanded its International Remote Baggage Screening program to this route. This program, launched last month, allows customs officers to inspect checked bags for potential threats or contraband before the aircraft reaches its destination.

Under the IRBS program, security agents at select foreign airports use X-ray technology to capture images of checked bags on U. S. -bound flights. These images are then transmitted to CBP officers, who remotely review them while the aircraft is en route. In the case of the Doha-JFK route, the scans will be sent from Hamad International Airport to JFK.

This approach not only expedites the processing of baggage but also allows connecting passengers to proceed directly to their onward flight without having to reclaim and recheck their luggage. The only exception is if a passenger is selected for additional, in-person inspection.

Diane Sabatino, CBP’s executive assistant commissioner, stated in a news release that the expansion of IRBS on the Doha-JFK route significantly enhances their enforcement capabilities. She also emphasized that this initiative is a result of collaboration with Qatar Airways, the Qatar Ministry of the Interior, and the New Terminal One, and aims to proactively identify and intercept threats before they reach the U. S.

The IRBS program was initially tested in 2015 on American Airlines’ route between Los Angeles and Sydney, Australia. It has now been rolled out on a few other international routes, including United’s service from San Francisco to Sydney and American flights between Dallas/Fort Worth and London Heathrow.

By leveraging advanced technology and international partnerships, CBP is strengthening its security posture and ensuring that all baggage is thoroughly screened to prevent the entry of illicit items and protect the homeland. With the expansion of IRBS to the Doha-JFK route, passengers can look forward to a smoother and more streamlined travel experience, without the hassle of reclaiming and rechecking their baggage.