IATA reveals vision for airport security

IATA unveiled (07-Jun-2011) the first mock-up of its "Checkpoint of the Future" at the IATA AGM, designed to enhance security while reducing queues and intrusive searches at airports, using intelligence-driven risk-based measures.

The main concepts of the checkpoint are:

• Strengthened security by focussing resources where risk is greatest;
• Supporting this risk-based approach by integrating passenger information into the checkpoint process;
• Maximising throughput for the vast majority of travellers who are deemed to be low risk with no compromise on security levels.

Passengers approaching the checkpoint will be directed to one of three lanes: "known traveller", "normal" and "enhanced security". The determination will be based on a biometric identifier in the passport or other travel document that triggers the results of a risk assessment conducted by government before the passenger arrives at the airport. The three security lanes will have technology to check passengers according to risk. Known travellers who have registered and completed background checks with government authorities will have expedited access. Normal screening would be for the majority of travellers. And those passengers for whom less information is available, who are randomly selected or who are deemed to be an "elevated risk" would have an additional level of screening. [more]

IATA: "Today's checkpoint was designed four decades ago to stop hijackers carrying metal weapons. Since then, we have grafted on more complex procedures to meet emerging threats. We are more secure, but it is time to rethink everything. We need a process that responds to today's threat ... That means moving from a system that looks for bad objects, to one that can find bad people," Giovanni Bisignani, Director General & CEO. Source: IATA, 07-Jun-2011.