Vancouver International Airport is to deploy cameras in order to enhance its Tarsier runway debris detection system.
Developed by Qinetiq, the Tarsier system uses millimetre wave radar to provide round the clock runway debris detection.
Since January last year, four radars have scanned the airport's north and south parallel runways, locating objects that could be drawn into engines or damage aircraft systems.
The camera enhancement will improve airport efficiency by allowing remote visual verification of detected debris.
The fully automatic cameras will operate at night, as well as during the day, and will allow imaging anywhere on the runway.
The cameras are due to be installed at Vancouver later this year.
By Elizabeth Clifford-Marsh
