Hamad International Airport (HIA), in partnership with Smiths Detection, has installed an innovative screening technology at its security checkpoint that will deliver unprecedented levels of security, customer service and efficiency. The new screening lane, which has been installed at HIA’s transfers’ hall, is a part of HIA’s Smart Security Programme, which aims to deploy advanced screening technological solutions across the wider airport campus and as part of HIA’s airport expansion.

 

The new ground-breaking technology does not require passengers to remove either liquids or larger electronic items from their bags and will allow for faster passenger processing by providing the possibility for up to six passengers to load their items into trays at the same time. It also incorporates passenger boarding pass scanners prior to screening that enable a range of benefits, one of which is to electronically ‘tag’ each passengers’ belongings to their boarding card to ensure the belongings are tracked. Once passengers remove their possessions from the tray, the system scans the tray to ensure no items are left behind. In the unlikely event a passenger loses an item, a swift and efficient investigation can then be conducted on their behalf. The technology further advances passenger security and customer service as it incorporates a shoe screening capability conducted in only a few seconds without the need for passengers to remove their footwear.  

 

The passenger experience is also enhanced by a remote screening management system for cabin baggage that aims to continually keep the system belt moving, even during the image evaluation process. The system also provides a high detection and low false-alarm rate, which contributes to fewer random checks. The scanner is also fitted with UV-C modules to disinfect each and every tray before passenger use. This system in particular is being fast tracked at HIA, and the airport will be one of the first global airports to roll it out across all of its departures and transfers passenger screening lanes later this year.

 

Mr. Saeed Yousef Al-Sulaiti, Vice President of Security at HIA, said: “With the passenger experience at the core of HIA operations, we are always searching for ways to elevate the passenger journey. The introduction of this advanced technology is born out of our growing partnership with the leading technology expert, Smiths Detection, and represents our shared dedication to creating and trialling technological solutions for the delivery of a seamless and secure experience at important checkpoints throughout the terminal.”

 

Mr.Al-Sulaiti, continued: “We are proud to have harnessed the power of technology to enhance our operational excellence and passenger experience. We realise the potential of such an efficient security screening technology and look forward to delivering a truly secure and convenient screening process for all.”

 

As part of its partnership with Smiths Detection, HIA was the first airport in the region to install Smiths Detection’s HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX, which offers advanced screening of carry-on baggage at security checkpoints using Computed Tomography (CT). The HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX adheres to the highest levels of security outlined by international regulations and optimises checkpoint performance.

 

Qatar’s airport is renowned for advancing various technological solutions to improve its passenger experience and operational efficiency. In the past year, HIA installed C2 technology, the latest security screening system which allows transferring passengers to move through security checkpoints without removing electronic devices from their bags.