Automated security screening could be a game-changer - for both airport efficiency and the passenger experience

Article summary

• Automated security screening systems, such as BEUMER Group’s SECTRO, replace manual procedures with biometric-enabled self-service stations, reducing queues and stress for passengers.

• Parallel processing and centralised screening functions improve throughput, cut bottlenecks, and deliver up to 30% lower labour requirements for airports.

• Passengers benefit from shorter waiting times, no need to remove liquids or electronics, and secure tray handling with track-and-trace technology.

• Modular design and digital twin integration enable seamless implementation in existing terminals, enhancing operational efficiency and security standards

Labour shortages and an inefficient use of staff and equipment are some of the major issues facing the airport industry.

The security screening flow has long been one of airport logistics’ most difficult, staff-consuming and stressful processes. Ask operators and passengers, and both parties would concur.

This is why the Sectro solution could represent a massive upgrade of the manual and labour-intensive procedure – both in terms of efficiency and improving the overall passenger experience.

BEUMER Group has just released an in-depth whitepaper, which gives you all the information you need about the new automated system that could revolutionise Security Screening.

Why the existing layout is struggling

Most airports today rely on smart security lanes (SSLs) to manage passenger screenings.

But the dynamic environment – for example, the need for process optimisation to alleviate labour shortages – has made it clear that the existing layout for passenger screenings needs to be optimised.

A closer examination of the existing SSL layout shows that almost every step of the process can lead to bottlenecks, inefficiency and stressful moments for the passenger. The problems start to pile up from the moment passengers enter the security screening area, which often follows a lengthy wait:

• Divestment: Slow passengers often end up making fellow passengers wait longer. Upon entering the screening area, they can be uncertain about what they are supposed to do. There are also too many trays per person to keep the passengers moving efficiently down the line. And the scanning technology contributes to the bottleneck as it needs time to create and process the 3D image.
• Scanning: The existing SSL layout employs a high number of CT scanners that require high staffing levels. The result is a manual and labour-intensive procedure and use of equipment.

Overall, it’s not an efficient process. In a new whitepaper, you can read a comprehensive breakdown of why the conventional screening model may be a solution of the past and how the Sectro solution enables a better passenger flow and much more effective use of staff and equipment.

You can download the whitepaper right here. 

What is the Sectro solution?

The Sectro solution is a brand new take on the process layout for passenger screenings.

Based on centralised automation and digitalisation technologies, it solves the recurring challenges regarding bottlenecks, delays and staffing levels. At the same time, passengers will experience a much more secure and stress-free screening process.

The basic idea behind the Sectro solution is to reconfigure the screening process from a linear concept into a parallel process. The new solution groups each step of the process instead of using multiple lanes placed parallel to one another.

The Sectro system takes advantage of user-friendly self-service automation and touchscreens to guide passengers through the process to avoid bottlenecks and the experience of uncertainty.

Brillant tray flow optimisation

For example, to address the inefficient divestment and scanning processes, the Sectro solution uses innovative technology and automation to offer a much more effective, passenger-friendly beginning to the screening process.

The system is based on large trays that are more than twice the size of the conventional ones, so passengers only need one tray. It is also 100 percent traceable and enables the maximum area of the CT scanner tunnel size to be utilised, which optimises the efficiency and speed of the scanning system.

The result is a quicker scanning process, fewer bottlenecks, reduced staff requirements and less stress for the passengers.

Numerous operational benefits

The Sectro solution represents a dramatic overhaul of the existing solution. Therefore the operation benefits are numerous:

• Operational benefits: Understand the significant personnel savings and how redeploying staff to other critical tasks can enhance overall efficiency.
• Comprehensive insights: Acquire in-depth analysis and recommendations for implementing automated security screening solutions.
• Expert perspectives: Benefit from the expertise and experience of leading professionals in airport security and automation.

Do you want to learn more about the brand new Sectro solution? Download the whitepaper here.