The new scanners will allow for the removal of the 100ml liquid and gel limit.
Airports in Ireland have recently begun trialling new technology that will make air travel safer and more accessible for passengers. The project, which is already in operation in one of Ireland’s airports, has been an overwhelming success.
New technology
This week, the Dublin Aviation Authority (DAA) has been trialling technology that would allow passengers to keep their liquids and electronic devices in their baggage. Implementing this new technology means that the 100ml restriction on liquids while passing through security will be lifted. The trial will take place at Cork Airport (ORK) and Dublin Airport (DUB).
Photo: Chris Loh | Simple Flying
The new technology works similarly to a CT scanner in a hospital. The images produced by the X-Ray machine are more detailed and precise than before. This new technology means that security times are halved – a real game changer for airports, especially in Dublin. The scanners are made by Smiths Detection and have a rotating gantry of 130 cycles a minute to give a high-definition 3D image.
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The DAA has responded to this with open arms. According to Kevin Cullinane, Head of Communications at DAA, they have been trialling the exciting technology over the Christmas period. Mr. Cullinane also noted that there are over 30 X-ray machines at Dublin Airport and that the trial will be difficult.
The DAA, which the Government of Ireland partially owns, received a €6m investment under Budget 2023 to install and trial this new technology.
Mr. Cullinane said,
“Daa is currently trialling new enhanced x-ray technology at Dublin Airport, which passengers will notice as they travel through the airport this Christmas. This project will involve the purchase of the new state-of-the-art equipment, as well as the completion of significant civil works within the terminal building.”
A massive success for Shannon
Shannon Airport (SNN) in County Clare, already operates this system. The new security machines were unveiled in October 2021 and were received with great enthusiasm and delight by passengers. Shannon Airport notes that it could handle 550 passengers per hour thanks to the new security machines. Since the introduction of the technology, Shannon has lifted the ban on liquids and gels above 100ml.
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The airport noted a 50% reduction in security waiting times and a much more relaxed and stress-free environment. Mary Considine, CEO of the Shannon Group, said,
“We are very proud of this project which uses cutting-edge technology and is expected to considerably shorten the dwell time in the airport’s security screening area. We are very grateful for the support we have received from the Department of Transport to enable us to carry out this project. It is the latest in a €17 million program of works underway at the airport campus. Among these are a new €12.7 million Hold Baggage Screening facility which will be completed shortly, a series of airfield upgrade works, the extension of an airside covered walkway, and the upgrade to the customs channel and exit into the arrival’s hall in the terminal building. All of these projects are designed to futureproof the airport in the years ahead.”
Shannon Airport also recently employed nine people to their Airport Screening Unit (ASU) to cater to the new scanners.
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Source: IrishCentral.Com