Frost & Sullivan’s Diogenis Papiomytis, global program director, commercial aviation, aerospace, defense and security, expects all areas of airport security to be impacted equally by technological advancements over the next decade: screening, communications, surveillance, command and control, access control, cybersecurity and perimeter security. The following technologies, which should not be seen in isolation but rather in unison, will have the biggest impact on airport security by 2030.
Artificial Intelligence
Airports are procuring IT solutions with embedded AI, aiming to predict performance and potential operational disruptions. With advanced predictability comes improved allocation of resources. Furthermore AI is a key element of intelligent video analytics and automation of passenger screening processes. AI-enabled risk-based screening will eventually replace risk-based screening by observational techniques (SPOT) employed by security agencies worldwide but championed by the TSA.
Biometrics
To date, biometrics has primarily been used for border control. However, it is a technology with numerous applications across the passenger journey. First and foremost it is an enabler for tunnel screening, which will eventually replace the security touchpoint. As airports and airlines invest in digitization of all passenger touchpoints and implement self-service systems (check-in, bag drop, security, boarding), biometrics will become the preferred technology for identity management. Furthermore, biometric data, when linked with boarding pass data, is of immense value to airport operators. These data sets will allow a transformation of airport business models, as airports learn more about passengers and can develop personalized products and services.
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is no longer an afterthought for airports. With increased digitization, sensorization and cloud use, airports become targets for cyber criminals. Almost all airport IT suppliers are investing in their cybersecurity capabilities, either organically or inorganically (via mergers and acquisitions).
Blockchain
Blockchain applications are already being trialled in airline and airport operations. In the airport environment, the technology holds immense potential in enabling collaboration projects and real-time data sharing among airport stakeholders. Perhaps the most important application of blockchain is in storing passenger biometric data and enabling seamless passenger journeys.
Sensorization and data analytics
Airports are investing big in data analytics and security is a major application for advanced software solutions. Passenger screening is expanding beyond the security checkpoint and will take place across the terminal (and beyond, linking to the Safe City vision). The goal is to enable a decentralized security model, with sensors performing analysis of numerous data sets over the passenger journey.
Further reading:
To read more about the latest security screening technologies on offer, visit the September 2018 issue of Passenger Terminal World magazine by clicking here.
