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UK airports install super-scanners

UK airports install super-scanners Travellers using British airports can look forward to lower queuing times after high-tech security super-scanners were installed at seven UK hubs.

Around 200 dual-imaging cabin luggage scanners are now active at airports including Gatwick and Heathrow to spot explosives, guns, and knives.

Machines produce incredible double X-ray images by scanning bags from four different angles.

BAA has chosen to install the scanners because they allow laptops and other electronic devices to be retained in bags which can reduce bottlenecks in queues.

It has been estimated that because of the scanners 95 per cent of passengers at Heathrow during June had security queue delays of five minutes or less.

This is part of a general overhaul of security at BAA airports, including 3,000 new security staff, alongside the replacement of archway metal detectors and introduction of liquid testing kits.

A BAA spokeswoman said "an enhancement of security areas forms part of BAA's £6.2-billion capital investment programme over the next five years".

"This has already resulted in a complete refurbishment of the passenger security areas at Stansted and transfer passenger search areas in Terminals 1, 3 and 4 at Heathrow."

"We have also increased the number of security lanes across our airports by over 50 per cent, removing retail outlets where necessary," added the spokeswoman.

BAA also intends to invest around £5 million into energy efficiency programmes which it believes could secure £8.6 million in savings.

Lighting and water efficiency technology will be implemented to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions at its airports.


Airport News posted on 10 July 2008

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