Tuesday, July 16, 2024
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Fraport recently celebrated a significant advancement in improving the security process at Frankfurt Airport with the introduction of nine new security lanes in Terminal 1’s Departures B-West. These lanes are outfitted with cutting-edge CT scanning technology and a new lane layout designed to streamline the flow of passengers through this bustling area.
Dr. Pierre Dominique Prümm, Fraport AG’s Executive Director of Aviation and Infrastructure, said: “I am happy to announce that we now have additional state-of-the-art security checkpoints in operation for the summer season. My special thanks go to the project team, the suppliers from the industry and our partner, the Federal Police, for implementing this complex project in record time. The use of the new technology is proving effective. On the busy travel days during the recent Easter and Whitsun school vacations, there were no significant waiting times for passengers at the security checkpoints. For the upcoming summer peak season, we are now offering our guests a smoother and faster experience at these busy checkpoints while maintaining the high security standards. In total, we have equipped 40 passenger screening checkpoints in both terminals with the new technology.”
Reducing Queue Times
Daily, approximately 35,000 travelers on 200 flights pass through Concourse B of Terminal 1. The newly implemented security area in B-West now features advanced CT scanners by Leidos, providing quicker and more efficient screenings. Travelers are allowed to keep electronics and liquids inside their carry-on bags, eliminating the need to separate these items. The security lanes, developed by Italian company Gilardoni, boast a modular design that allows for easy component replacement and customization. This setup enables multiple travelers to load their luggage onto the conveyor simultaneously, significantly expediting the process. Additionally, these lanes include an automated system for tray retrieval, increasing efficiency by about 30% compared to the older security checkpoints without this technology.
Future Expansion Plans
Fraport plans to extend these new security features to all terminals at Frankfurt Airport, including the upcoming Terminal 3. The incorporation of this technology is already integrated into the architectural plans for Terminal 3.
Understanding CT Technology
The CT scanners utilized in these new security lanes employ the same technology found in medical imaging. This technology provides swift and accurate detection of various substances and items within baggage. This capability means that passengers can leave liquids and electronic devices in their bags, making the screening process quicker and reducing the need for manual bag checks. This advancement not only enhances passenger convenience but also streamlines the tasks for security staff, who benefit from a three-dimensional view of the contents of the baggage, leading to fewer manual inspections and shorter overall wait times.