Richard Thompson

Technology is expanding passenger screening functions and other capabilities at airport security checkpoints. For example, Smiths Detection is exploring the concept of a security checkpoint that integrates biometric identity management with screening solutions, says Richard Thompson, Global Market Director Aviation, Smiths Detection. Biometrics is the “unique identifier’” for passengers, and through integration of biometrics directly into the checkpoint, passengers can be matched with their luggage trays to enable real-time risk-based screening (RBS). The system is now able to trigger differentiated workflows for each passenger and their bags. Risk-based screening Risk-based screening optimizes security operator resources through enhanced screening of passengers who represent a higher risk, while passengers deemed to be low risk enjoy a more seamless journey.Passengers deemed to be low risk enjoy a more seamless journey Easily integrated with existing infrastructure, biometric checkpoints deliver operational efficiencies and a competitive advantage to airports through accelerating the screening process, thus enabling a more seamless free flow of passengers. Passenger and tray identification Through passenger and tray identification, new data insights can also be gathered to inform decision-making. Advanced data analysis based on flights, airlines or destinations could be utilized by airlines and security authorities. For example, airlines could monitor passenger flow through security for specific flights or track the number of trays per flight to predict overhead compartment capacity. Checkpoint data could also be combined with hold luggage screening results or shared with transit and arrival airports to better inform security assessments. Advanced data analysis based on flights, airlines or destinations could be utilized by airlines and security authorities Advanced screening of carry-on baggage Smiths Detection’s HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX offers advanced screening of carry-on baggage using Computed Tomography (CT), an advanced X-ray technology originally intended for medical applications, which allows for detailed, layered 3D images to be rotated and dissected. Electronic devices and liquids do not need to be removed from baggageThis enables detailed detection, meaning electronic devices and liquids do not need to be removed from baggage, thus expediting screening and further improving the passenger journey. Smith Detection’s iLane.evo is an automatic tray return system. By delivering a steady flow of trays, it plays a critical role in streamlining the screening process and delivering increased throughput; optimized operational costs; and an improved passenger experience. AI for Object Recognition In other trends, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in aviation security is on the rise due to the exponential growth in computing power. It has the potential to significantly boost the performance of screening equipment – allowing for the deployment of new object recognition functions at the checkpoint, which could pave the way for a more automated, alarm-resolution-only passenger screening. Smiths Detection has developed a family of smart algorithms, called iCMORE, which use machine learning to reliably detect prohibited or dangerous goods in baggage, including weapons, to reduce the burden on image analysts and improve screening outcomes.

Global threat detection and security technologies company, Smiths Detection is showcasing for the first time an integrated checkpoint solution at inter airport Europe 2019, which harnesses biometric technology to enable risk-based screening practices. With air passenger growth predicted to double by 2037, the aviation industry will be challenged to support this capacity growth while providing operational efficiencies and meeting shifting passenger expectations of the airport experience. To cope with this growth, biometric technology is being increasingly adopted at airport Border Control gates, bag drop and boarding gates. As pioneers in providing checkpoint solutions to airports across the world, Smiths Detection has partnered with experts in the field of biometry to create, for the first time, a proof of concept which integrates biometric identity management solutions with class-leading screening solutions. Integration of biometrics Inter airport delegates are invited to experience the biometric capable checkpoint in action – which also employs Smiths Detection’s advanced CT scanner, HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX, the iCMORE Weapons automatic object recognition capability and the advanced tray return system, iLane.evo. Biometrics is the ‘unique identifier’ for passengers, and through integration of biometrics directly into the checkpoint, passengers can be matched with their trays to enable real-time risk-based screening. We are very excited to be driving biometric checkpoint technology forward in a rapidly developing marketplace" Risk-based screening is designed to increase operational efficiency and effectiveness through continual risk assessments relevant to the individual passenger journey, resulting in shorter and easier journeys for passengers. Through passenger and tray identification, new data insights can be gathered to inform decision making at airports - based on flights, airlines or destinations. Matching passengers with trays also enables the sharing of screening results with transit or arrival airports, and the combination of hold baggage and checkpoint screening results. Seamless checkpoint security "At Smiths Detection, we’re dedicated to delivering a seamless passenger journey and we are very excited to be driving biometric checkpoint technology forward in a rapidly developing marketplace,” said Smiths Detection Vice President Europe, Africa and Marketing Tony Tielen. "As a trusted partner to airports across the world, we are working with the aviation industry to deliver risk-based screening at departure, transit and arrival airports to streamline the checkpoint journey to make it even safer and more efficient.” he adds. "Biometrics is an urgently needed solution to provide seamless checkpoint security,” said Global Market Director Aviation, Richard Thompson. "Ever increasing air passenger traffic plus advances in biometrics, artificial intelligence and integrated screening technology mean that risk-based screening is now firmly on the fast track. We look forward to offering a preview of the checkpoint solution of the future to delegates at inter airport Europe 2019.”