Kahului Airport has received a new state-of-the-art Explosive Detection System.

The system is an enhanced baggage security screening system capable of detecting explosives, weapons and other contraband materials.

The airport has six explosive detection machines, which the Transportation Security Administration says will have sufficient capacity to handle growth for the next 20 years.

"The passenger baggage check-in experience will be seamless and simple," state Deputy Transportation Director Brian Sekiguchi said last week. "Baggage will enter the security screening area on conveyor belts from the check-in counters and will no longer require passengers to carry their bags to the EDS machines."

As part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (economic stimulus funding), the TSA gave the state $18.5 million for the system’s approximate cost of $24.6 million.

"Along with improving air travel security, the new EDS system will open up lobby space at our airport," state Transportation Director Brennon Morioka said at a dedication ceremony with state and federal officials. "This will help simplify the flight check-in process for our air travelers and help maintain a positive first and last impression of our state that travelers receive when they visit our airports."

The integration of the Explosive Detection System is part of the airport’s Terminal Improvements Project. Other changes to the airport include the construction and installation of new baggage conveyor equipment, seven new baggage carousels and a room dedicated to explosive trace detection.