An Australian-first security screening trial at Melbourne Airport is expected to make the trip to the gate more streamlined for travellers.
Jetsetters at Melbourne Airport will be the first in the country to trial technology at security checks, allowing electronics and carry-on liquids to be kept in bags.
The Australian-first security screening trial will be launched at the airport’s terminal four – home to Tiger, Jetstar and REX – on Wednesday.
It uses advanced X-ray systems to look into passengers’ carry-on baggage without the need to remove electronics or liquids, with the aim of streamlining bag checks.
The three-pronged approach uses advanced technology to scan cabin baggage, an automatic tray handling system and special software so security staff can identify bottlenecks in the screening process.
Airport chief of aviation Simon Gandy said the trial, in collaboration with Smiths Detections, would provide insight into simplifying the journey for travellers at Australia’s busiest airport.
“Thanks to the pilot program 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,” he said.
“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.
“We look forward to sharing our findings with airports globally.”
Smiths Detection managing director Jordan Thrupp said its technology can help improve the safety and convenience for millions of travellers at the airport as well as enhance security.
There is no set time frame for the trial, but it’s expected to be adopted in domestic and international terminals over the next one to two years, a spokeswoman said.
Source AAP
