In a groundbreaking move, Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) is set to transform the airport security experience for passengers at Terminal 2 (T2). According to a report by Moneycontrol, Bengaluru International Airport Limited (BIAL), the operator of KIA, has announced a pioneering trial run for the computer tomography X-ray (CTX) machine, eliminating the need for passengers to place their personal electronic gadgets in plastic trays.
The trial run for the CTX machine at T2 is slated to commence in the upcoming weeks, marking a significant leap in airport security technology. Satyaki Raghunath, Chief Operating Officer (COO) of BIAL, stated, "KIA will be the first airport in India to begin passenger trials for the CTX machine, which will be integrated with the Automatic Tray Retrieval System (ATRS) and full-body scanners."
With three full-body scanners already installed at T2, the airport aims to provide a faster and more secure flying experience for passengers. Raghunath highlighted the operational advantages of the new system, explaining, "Operators can rotate the view to examine the contents of bags, reducing the number of re-checks and physical inspections. The new system will also reduce the number of trays required per person during security screening."
The innovative security approach allows passengers to leave electronic items, such as laptops, and liquids, aerosols, and gels in their bags during the screening process. This not only expedites security checks but also streamlines the processing time at security checkpoints. Raghunath emphasized the positive impact on hygiene, stating, "Removing fewer items from luggage means fewer trays, which speeds up divesting and reduces contact points, thus improving hygiene."
Additionally, the advanced security measures will eliminate the current process of patting down passengers after a primary screening through the walk-through metal detector. Raghunath provided insight into the ongoing trials, stating, "The CTX Proof of Concept [POC] is undergoing trial at T2. The installation and integration with ATRS lanes are currently underway, and trials on passengers will begin very soon."
The use of CT technology in screening carry-on baggage is expected to significantly enhance security outcomes. The automatic explosives detection algorithms, coupled with superior 3D image quality, offer an advanced screening process. Furthermore, CT technology excels in identifying the density of liquids, adding an extra layer of security to the screening process.
Terminal 2 of Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport, a colossal project costing around Rs 5,000 crore, was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in November 2022. Since the commencement of domestic operations on January 15, 2023, and international flight operations on September 12, T2 has been at the forefront of pioneering changes to enhance passenger experience and security standards. The implementation of the CTX machine is poised to set a new benchmark in airport security not only in India but on the global stage.
