Smiths Detection has announced that its HI-SCAN 6040aTiX advanced baggage X-ray scanner has been certified by France’s Service Technique de l’Aviation Civile (STAC) under the requirements for liquid explosive detection systems (LEDS). The system is approved by the European Civil Aviation Conference according to EU standard two type C and EU EDS standard two, and by the US TSA for checkpoints.

The 6040aTiX is the latest in a wide range of Smiths Detection products to achieve the STAC LEDS certification. These include the Responder BLS, the HI-SCAN 7555aTiX as well as the HI-SCAN 6040i and HI-SCAN 6046si in conjunction with the Threat Identification Module (TIM) upgrade. They are all designed to detect threat liquids and comply with the European LEDS standards, which will partially relax the liquid ban for cabin baggage.

With more than 2,000 installations worldwide, Smiths Detection’s 6040aTiX is the most favoured system where customers require a premium scanner for automatic explosives and liquid detection in carry-on-baggage. Combining large tunnel size and high-resolution image quality, the aTiX helps simplify and accelerate airport security operations. Using a multi-view system, it is designed to fulfill both current and future requirements for threat detection.

STAC is attached to the Air Transport Directorate of the French Ministry in charge of transport, and provides assistance to the country’s Ministry of Defense. It provides airports with technical expertise and support and is focused on airport infrastructure and equipment, air navigation, environment, air transport safety, and transport security.

Smiths Detection vice-president for international sales Hans Zirwes said: "The STAC certification, highly regarded internationally, is yet another achievement for 6040aTiX, confirming its high quality standard. In combination with the other LEDS-approved Smiths Detection products we can offer tailor-made solutions for the different individual requirements of our customers."