Flyers At Bengaluru Airport Will No Longer Have To Put Gadgets In Tray During Security Screening
Photo : Times Now
Bengaluru: Passengers travelling from the Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) Terminal 2 (T2) can soon enjoy the new security screening process, which aims to reduce passenger inconvenience. Bengaluru International Airport Limited (BIAL), the operator of KIA, has announced to commence the trail run for the new Computer Tomography X-ray (CTX) machine in the coming weeks. The CTX machine, integrated with the Automatic Tray Retrieval System (ATRS) and full-body scanners, aims to streamline the screening process for domestic passengers.
How CTX Machine will help passengers?
The implementation of the CTX machine at T2 will eliminate the need for passengers to remove personal electronic devices, such as mobile phones and laptops, from their handbags during security checks. By using advanced CT technology, operators will be able to view the contents of bags from different angles, minimising the need for re-checks and physical inspections. Consequently, passengers can leave their electronic items and liquids, aerosols, and gels (LAGs) in their bags, resulting in a faster and more convenient screening process. This innovation will also reduce the number of trays required per person, expediting the divesting process and minimizing contact points, thereby improving hygiene.
Additionally, the introduction of the CTX machine will eliminate the current practice of patting down passengers after passing through the walk-through metal detector. The CTX Proof of Concept (POC) is currently undergoing trials at T2, with installation and integration with ATRS lanes underway. Once passenger trials commence, the CTX machine’s ability to provide superior 3D image quality and detect the density of liquids will significantly enhance security outcomes.
Mandate for all airport handling over 50 lakh passengers
The installation of CTX machines aligns with the directive from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), which mandates that all major airports handling over 50 lakh passengers must have 3D CTX machines for cabin checks by the end of this year. However, it seems likely that many operators will not meet this deadline.
Terminal 2, often referred to as a ‘terminal in a garden,’ was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in November 2022, boasting a construction cost of approximately Rs 5,000 crore. While Terminal 1 (T1) primarily serves domestic flights, Terminal 2 is dedicated to both international carriers and select domestic flights.
In comparison to KIA, other airports in India are at different stages of implementing similar technology. Delhi airport, for instance, has conducted CTX trials but has yet to proceed with passenger trials. The Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) spokesperson stated to Money Control that the feedback from stakeholders is currently awaited. Furthermore, the IGI Airport in Delhi is in the process of procuring CT and full-body scanners.