Delhi International Airport will begin trials of advanced full-body scanners in May, following the latest guidelines from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). This was announced by Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) on Friday, April 4. Two of the four scanners have been installed at Terminal 1, and the other two at Terminal 3 at the airport.
The airport operator will implement the advanced scanning technology to enhance passenger security while ensuring privacy. The new system generates a two-dimensional image based on a preconfigured human avatar, without retaining personal images, thus protecting individual identities. Data from the scanning process will be encrypted and accessible only to authorised personnel to prevent misuse. Four state-of-the-art scanners have been installed, with two in Terminal 1 and two in Terminal 3.
This technology, already in use at major airports in USA, Canada, and Australia, completes scans in three seconds, accommodating up to 1,200 scans per hour, improving passenger flow while maintaining high safety standards. Following the latest directives issued by the BCAS, trials for advanced security scanners are set to commence next month.
The IT interface for these machines is being finalised. Once the trial period concludes, a committee headed by the BCAS will evaluate the results and develop standard operating procedures for full-scale implementation, according to DIAL.
These state-of-the-art scanners represent a significant technological advancement, as they have the capability to detect both metallic and non-metallic threats, including various types of explosives. This enhancement marks a considerable upgrade compared to traditional metal detectors, which predominantly focus on identifying only metallic objects.
According to DIAL, the new scanners are equipped with four-touch screen monitors that enable real-time image analysis and provide clear instructions to passengers during the screening process. Designed with versatility in mind, these scanners can accommodate individuals of diverse heights, ranging from as short as 3.3 feet to as tall as 6.7 feet, ensuring that all passengers, including children and adults, are effectively scanned.
"Unlike conventional X-ray scanners, they do not emit radiation, making them safe for all travellers, including pregnant women and individuals with medical implants. Importantly, these scanners are designed to expedite passenger movement, ensuring a more seamless airport experience with reduced wait times," DIAL stated.
While DIAL prepares for these upcoming trials, it's noteworthy that Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru has already been piloting similar full-body scanners for approximately a year. This prior experience with advanced scanning technology has positioned the airport as a potential benchmark for the successful implementation of enhanced security measures in the aviation sector.
