Trial run: IGI Airport gets hi-tech system to screen passengers

In a first of its kind, Delhi airport has acquired a full-body, compact image-free advanced passenger screening system. This system quickly screens passengers using safe millimeter wave technology to automatically detect concealed objects made of broad variety of concealed material — both metallic and non-metallic.

The system will be “on a trial basis” and has been deployed at terminal 1-D. Authorities have started training CISF personnel on how to operate the machine, which will be operational after November 15.

It processes digital scan data to determine if the individual can be cleared through the checkpoints. If a potential threat is identified by the system, an outline highlighting the area(s) of concern is displayed over a generic mannequin figure on the operator’s control panel. Security personnel can then assess the situation.

The system can detect a broad range of targets such as metallic and non-metallic weapons, standard and home-made explosives (sheet and bulk), liquids, gels, plastics, powders, metals, ceramics, and others solids. It has the ability to see under people’s clothing and detect hidden non-metal objects such as plastic explosives too. It offers the same great aviation checkpoint detection and throughput as the widely deployed image-free system.

On the outside, the system conserves space with a smaller footprint for efficient installation in areas with 8 foot (2.4 meter) high ceilings. It has a modern and attractive exterior. The system fits easily into tight aviation checkpoint areas. On the inside, the system enhances security, delivering the same robust automatic target detection, high throughput, image-free privacy, and safety as the proven scanning system.

The passengers’ experience with the system is convenient, straightforward, and efficient, requiring only a single stationary position during a 1.5 second scan. It requires special movement or motions.

This is an image-free system that eliminates privacy concerns. This system software eliminates the generation and review of the images. Numeric scan data is analysed by software without human intervention to determine if any threats are present. Potential threats are then presented to the operator using a generic mannequin.

Body scanners reduce queues by cutting down the frisking time and also improve security by scanning through clothing. This system supports processing of 200-300 people per hour depending on protocols,” said an official.

The system offers advanced personal screening, without health risks. It does not use X-rays or ionising radiation. The signals created by the system are thousands of times less powerful than other commercial radio frequency devices such as cell phones, wireless handsets, and other standard household devices.