Smiths Detection to upgrade New Zealand’s airport checkpoint security

Aurelien Guilbert, Managing Director of North and South Asia, Smiths Detection

Smiths Detection, a threat detection and security inspection tech firm, was selected to supply New Zealand’s Aviation Security Service (AvSec) with advanced checkpoint security tech for its five major airports; Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Queenstown and Wellington.

What tech will Smiths Detection supply AvSec?

Smiths Detection will supply 35 HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX computed tomography (CT) X-ray machines. The HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX, which meets regulatory requirements in the US and EU, ensures high level security while improving the experience for passengers and operators.

The carry-on baggage scanner can speed up security screening by allowing passengers to leave laptops and liquids in their cabin baggage, and deliver cost savings to airports as it is the most energy efficient checkpoint CT X-ray on the market. Smiths Detection will also supply:

  • The iLane.evo smart automatic tray return system, which delivers a steady flow of trays, removing bottlenecks and providing a seamless checkpoint journey
  • The iCMORE Weapons algorithm that supports security operators by identifying knives, guns, gun parts or ammunition concealed in bags

Each equipment is part of Smiths Detection’s integrated checkpoint and uses leading tech designed to increase security, improve experience, and enhance operational efficiency.

What does this mean for Smiths Detection and AvSec?

Speaking of the contract award, Smiths Detection’s North & South Asia Market Head, Aurelien Guilbert, said, “We’re delighted to be continuing our long-standing relationship with New Zealand AvSec. Through the roll-out of this tech, passengers flying out of New Zealand’s international airports will have a smoother and more efficient checkpoint experience.”

“The new tech supplied by Smiths Detection will help AvSec to evolve and improve the New Zealand security screening while also enhancingg passenger facilitation and experience,” said Ben Smith, Group Manager Strategic Development in the Aviation Security Service.

“Having seen these systems during the trial in Christchurch and other airports already, we are confident in being able to deploy advanced tech solutions within our security checkpoints.”

Installation of the systems will begin in 2023.