Smiths Detection to improve security at Darwin and Alice Springs airports

Courtesy Smiths Detection

This partnership with Smiths Detection makes both Darwin International and Alice Springs Airport, the first airports in Australia to adopt CT technology for their passenger screening needs.

NT Airports provide critical infrastructure and services to those travelling through its airports and is an important contributor to the NT economy because of its proximity to Asia’s tourism and business markets and the strength of the resources sector in the NT. As part of efforts to ensure that customer safety and security remain the number one priority, NT Airports sought a security partner who focused on both traveller safety and passenger experience.

Ian Kew, CEO of NT Airports, said: “We want to keep customers safe, ease their transition through our airports, and provide peace of mind for everyone. We’re striving for excellence and we’re excited to partner with Smiths Detection who share the same vision and tenacity as us.”

Robert Phillips, Head of Security & Contingency Planning for NT Airports, agreed. “The new CT screening equipment provides enhanced capabilities while maximising passenger throughput. Our airports will be equipped with cutting edge security technology on par with the best airports internationally. Darwin and Alice Springs will be the first airports in Australia to be fully equipped with this advanced technology. This will not only lead to fewer physical bag searches but greater ease for passengers passing through our screening points.”

Smiths Detection will install seven units of HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX as part of an integrated checkpoint with iLane.evo, the automated tray return system for automated tray handling, to deliver a steady flow of trays so travellers at NT Airports can experience a stress-free screening process. Four units of HI-SCAN 10080 XCT, for checked baggage screening, will also be installed. This offers security operators higher levels of security and operational efficiency.

“Smiths Detection understands the diverse needs that airports face and is committed to improving passenger experience and security, using our world-leading technology and expertise in CT systems,” said Jordan Thrupp, Managing Director of Australia and New Zealand, Smiths Detection. “It is a pleasure to be working with NT Airports, to deliver a security screening solution which will enable seamless travel experience for passengers.”

The HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX has both TSA AT-2 certification and ECAC EDS CB C3 approval and the HI-SCAN 10080 XCT has the highest, defined security standard in the EU with ECAC approval as a Standard 3.1 explosives detection system for hold baggage.

The projects at Darwin and Alice Springs airports are on schedule to be delivered by mid-2020.