Australia’s Melbourne Airport has signed an agreement to trial Smiths Detection’s computed tomography (CT) based checkpoint scanner system to improve passengers’ experience.
Known as HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX, Smiths Detection’s latest screening systems can produce a 3D image of items inside the travellers’ bag, unlike standard solutions currently in use.
As well as improving traveller throughput and reducing overall costs for airport, the new baggage screening system also eliminates the needs to separately screen liquids and gels, as well as laptops and other electronic items.
Melbourne Airport aviation chief Simon Gandy said: “Thanks to the pilot programme, we are able to better understand how in the future passengers can pass through security screening without having to divest their items, which simplifies the start of the traveller journey right from the outset.
“The quality of X-ray imagery and software functionality is also superior to what we have seen previously and will certainly shape the way the aviation industry works in the future, and we look forward to sharing our findings with airports globally.”
In addition, the airport is also piloting Smiths Detection’s iLane.evo, an automatic tray handling system; and Checkpoint.Evo Plus Checkpoint Management Software, which combines all components together to provide a single, integrated solution to better assist security staff.
The system features intuitive image analysis capabilities and a management and reporting server with a real-time operational KPI dashboard.
These capabilities allow Checkpoint.Evo Plus to support real-time decision-making about resource allocation, recognise bottlenecks in the screening process and helps in resource planning and overall administration.
Smiths Detection managing director Jordan Thrupp said “Melbourne Airport saw over 36 million visitors in FY17/18, with a strong outlook for further growth. This growth will lead to a continued increase in the number of passengers travelling through Melbourne Airport, and our technology can aid in improving their safety and convenience.
“Smiths Detection is pleased to partner with Melbourne Airport to trial this important new capability that will significantly enhance operations and improve security.”
