Düsseldorf Airport in Germany is introducing advanced screening technology for hold baggage provided by Smiths Detection.

The introduction is in support of the airport’s upgrade to ECAC Standard 3 explosives detection systems (EDS).

Awarded by the Procurement Office of the German Ministry of Interior, the contract includes 14 advanced HI-SCAN 10080 XCT scanners, which deliver exceptional levels of security; and can be further updated as necessary in the future to detect new explosive threats. There is also an associated eight-year service agreement.

“European airports are currently very focused on upgrading to ECAC Standard 3 approved EDS to meet the new regulations,” commented Tony Tielen VP EMEA, Smiths Detection.  “This does, of course, require a financial investment which must be clearly weighed against any operational benefits.  Airports are keen to have the assurance that future security requirements and passenger growth will be accommodated by the new technology.”

HI-SCAN 10080 XCT scanners combine high-resolution X-ray technology, computed tomography (CT), and advanced detection algorithms to increase both security and operational efficiency significantly.

With a very fast belt speed and large rectangular tunnel, these scanners offer a continuously high throughput of up to 1,800 bags per hour. Extremely sharp, full colour, high-resolution images, as well as a low false alarm rate also support the higher performance levels required by the new regulations.

Located in the industrial heart of Germany, Düsseldorf Airport is key to the region’s infrastructure.  From here, over 23 million passengers fly on 70 airlines to 200 destinations in 55 countries.

The new equipment will be used to upgrade the hold baggage screening facilities in both Terminals and be operated by the German Federal Police. Installation will begin early in 2018 and be rolled out over the following four years.