Airports: In-House Security Or Outsourced Protection?

Airport security is a set of technological equipment, qualified personnel, and protocols implemented at airport facilities to ensure the safety of individuals and the proper functioning of airport activity. Airports are potential targets for terrorism and other forms of crime due to the large number of people passing through them daily. As such, airport security serves several purposes: protecting the airport and country from threatening events, reassuring travellers that they are safe, and protecting the country and its people.

Airport security includes techniques and methods such as identity document reviews, baggage scans, security checks, metal detectors, canine units, X-rays, and advanced technologies like trace detectors that read vapour samples or swabs. These measures are in place to prevent any threats or potentially dangerous situations from arising or entering the country.

While some countries may have an agency that protects all of their airports, in other countries, protection is controlled at the state or local level and may vary from airport to airport. For example, in the United States, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) oversees security for all modes of transportation, while in other countries, such as Australia, non-travellers are typically subject to the same security scans as travellers.

The level of security at airports can also depend on the destination of the flight. For instance, U.S.-bound flights may have additional security measures in place, such as separate security checks or document checks at the gate.

Passenger and baggage inspection

Identity Document Verification

Airport security officers examine passengers' identification documents, such as passports or boarding passes, to ensure they are authorised to enter the restricted areas of the airport and board their flight. This process may be done visually or through automated systems like boarding pass readers or biometric checks, including fingerprints or iris scans.

Passenger Screening

The use of metal detectors, walk-through body scanners, and advanced imaging technology helps detect metallic and non-metallic items that may pose a security threat. This includes weapons, explosives, and other prohibited items. Passengers may also undergo pat-down procedures, where security officers perform a physical inspection, including sensitive areas, to ensure no prohibited items are concealed.

Carry-on Baggage Screening

Security officers utilise X-ray machines, explosive detection systems (EDS), and other technologies to inspect carry-on baggage for dangerous items. Passengers are required to remove electronic devices like laptops and tablets from their bags for separate screening. Certain items, such as foods and powders, may need to be separated from carry-on bags to provide clear images during X-ray screening.

Checked Baggage Screening

Checked baggage undergoes similar screening processes to carry-on luggage, with approximately 1.3 million bags screened daily. While most checked baggage is screened without the need for a physical search, security officers may inspect bags and place a notice inside to inform travellers of the inspection.

Canine Units

Some airports employ canine teams to enhance security. These specially trained dogs assist in detecting explosives, drugs, and other contraband items during baggage screening and passenger checks.

International Variations

Airport security protocols vary internationally, with different countries and regions having distinct regulations and procedures. For example, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States has implemented stringent measures, while countries like Australia allow non-travellers to access airside areas with similar security scans as travellers.

Access control

Identification Systems and Biometric Controls

These systems include the use of identification cards, passports, or other documents to verify an individual's identity and authorisation to enter specific areas. For example, the Restricted Area Identity Card (RAIC) program in Canada uses biometric information like fingerprints and iris scans to control access to restricted areas.

Trained Security Personnel

Security personnel, such as guards or police officers, are strategically positioned at access points to restricted areas. They visually inspect individuals' identification, monitor the area, and may perform additional checks as needed.

Physical Barriers and Controlled Entry Points

Airports use physical barriers, such as fences, gates, or other structures, to restrict access to certain areas. Controlled entry points, such as turnstiles or manned checkpoints, allow authorised individuals to pass while preventing unauthorised access.

Surveillance and Monitoring

Video surveillance systems and detection technologies are employed to monitor restricted areas. This includes the use of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras, motion sensors, and alarm systems. These tools help detect and track unauthorised individuals attempting to access restricted areas.

Accreditation and Security Clearance

Individuals who require access to restricted areas, such as airport staff or authorised vendors, undergo a thorough security clearance process. This process involves background checks, verification of identity, and ensuring the individual does not pose a security risk.

Integration with Other Security Measures

Detecting weapons, explosives, and drugs

Advanced Screening Technologies

Airport security employs advanced screening technologies such as X-ray machines, computed tomography (CT) scanners, and walk-through metal detectors to identify prohibited items, including weapons and explosives. These technologies allow for the detection of metallic and non-metallic objects, helping to prevent their unauthorized passage through security checkpoints.

Explosives Trace-Detection Portal Machines

Also known as "puffer machines," these devices are designed to detect traces of explosives and illegal drugs. They work by releasing puffs of air at a standing passenger, collecting particles for analysis, and then using ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) or mass spectrometry (MS) to identify the presence of explosive or narcotic compounds. Puffer machines are used as a secondary screening measure to complement traditional X-ray screening.

Drug and Explosive Detection Dogs

Police dog services are often utilized at airports for their keen sense of smell in detecting drugs and explosives. These highly trained canines can identify the presence of controlled substances and explosives, providing an additional layer of security to traditional screening methods.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing airport security by enhancing the capabilities of X-ray scanners. AI algorithms improve the accuracy and efficiency of prohibited item detection, including weapons and explosives. Machine learning enables these systems to differentiate between organic, inorganic, and mixed materials, reducing false positives and expediting the screening process.

Biometric Deployment and Intelligent Video Analytics

Biometric technologies, such as facial recognition, are being integrated into airport security systems. This allows for the identification of potential threats and the facilitation of risk-based screening. Additionally, intelligent video analytics, enabled by AI, enhances security by analyzing footage from multiple airports in real-time, improving decision-making and overall security operations.

Passenger Screening Techniques

In addition to technological advancements, airports also employ behavioral analysis techniques to detect potential threats. The "Screening Passengers by Observation Techniques" (SPOT) program, implemented at some U.S. airports, focuses on observing passenger behavior and engaging in conversations to identify suspicious activities. This human-centric approach complements the technology-driven security measures.

Monitoring goods

The monitoring of goods typically involves the use of advanced technologies, such as X-ray machines, explosives trace detection machines, and gas chromatography equipment, to detect prohibited items and hazardous substances. These technologies are continually evolving, with artificial intelligence (AI) now revolutionising the capabilities of X-ray scanners. AI algorithms enhance the accuracy and efficiency of prohibited item detection, including weapons and explosives, while reducing false positives.

Additionally, the monitoring of goods extends beyond physical inspections. Airports also employ surveillance techniques, such as video monitoring and detection systems, to observe the movement of goods and identify any suspicious behaviour or unauthorised activities.

Furthermore, the responsibility for monitoring goods falls on various entities, including airport authorities, security agencies, law enforcement agencies, and airlines, who collaborate and exchange information to maintain effective security measures.

Overall, the monitoring of goods is a comprehensive and multi-faceted process that leverages technology, human resources, and inter-agency cooperation to ensure the safety and security of airports and their passengers.

Surveillance and monitoring

Video surveillance is a significant aspect, with some airports employing CCTV to monitor restricted areas and control access. Additionally, advanced imaging technology, such as millimeter-wave scanners, is used to screen passengers for metallic and non-metallic threats, including weapons and explosives. These scanners use non-ionizing radio-frequency energy and pose no known health risks. They also protect passenger privacy through the use of automated target recognition software, which displays potential threats on a generic outline of a person.

Artificial intelligence is also being leveraged to enhance surveillance and monitoring capabilities. AI algorithms improve the accuracy and efficiency of threat detection in X-ray scans, reducing false positives and differentiating between organic, inorganic, and mixed materials. Furthermore, AI-powered systems can adapt to evolving security challenges by continuously learning from new data, improving the identification of concealed threats.

Another critical aspect of surveillance and monitoring is the human factor, as emphasised by Raphael Ron, former director of security at Ben Gurion Airport. This involves interrogating travellers and profiling based on factors like name, physical appearance, and travel purpose. While controversial, this approach is defended by Israeli authorities as an effective way to identify potential threats, especially in a context where most terrorists come from certain ethnic groups.

Overall, the surveillance and monitoring components of airport security are multi-faceted, employing a combination of technology, human intelligence, and strategic site monitoring to detect and prevent potential threats.

Frequently asked questions