Science and technology company Leidos has been named the principle contractor for technology upgrades which will take place across multiple security checkpoints at London Luton Airport (LLA).
Luton is one of the UK’s busiest airports, and served over 13 million passengers in 2022. The streamlining of customer check-in and security processes has become something of an issue globally, as demand has surged following the extended hiatus period of the global pandemic
“This is an exciting opportunity for our team, and we look forward to supporting these important initiatives at London Luton Airport,” said Brad Buswell, Senior Vice President and Operations Manager at Leidos.
“By focusing on end-to-end solutions versus individual systems, we will deliver a holistic security management solution, which can scale with the airport’s future needs.”
The upgrade project
As the principal contractor, Leidos manages all subcontractors and associated consultants working on the project.
This includes oversight of building modifications to create two central image processing rooms. The company will also install its security systems and other third-party security solutions at the checkpoints.
Under the agreement, Leidos will deploy 12 of its integrated ClearScan™ cabin baggage scanners and ProPassage™ automated tray return systems.
ClearScan is a computed tomography (CT) scanner with advanced explosive detection algorithms. This capability eliminates the need to remove electronics and approved liquids from carry-on baggage.
The large, automated ProPassage trays reduce the number of trays needed per passenger in the divest area and helps prevent sweep-outs, a common issue with light items in shallow trays.
The combination of these two technologies will enable faster processing of passengers through the checkpoint.
LLA will also deploy Mosaic™, Leidos’ open-architecture software platform. This cyber-secure solution integrates all security components into a single management system.
The platform will provide the airport with actionable business intelligence across the entire security screening operation.
“When we evaluated solutions that would provide the highest level of security while keeping a simple, friendly passenger journey and experience at London Luton Airport, Leidos was the ideal choice.”
“We look forward to realizing the benefits of these new technologies,” said Chris Jones, Head of Security at London Luton Airport.
Summary
As airports progressively address and respond to issues which have arisen through the post pandemic period, the streamlining of passenger processing has been at the forefront.
Globally, airports have grappled with similar concerns, in an attempt to improve efficiencies at the passenger check-in end.
Last month, Munich Airport announced a similar upgrade to its security facilities, having acknowledged its use of outdated traditional checkpoints.
After its overhaul, which is expected to be completed in the fall of 2024, the German airport will employ state-of-the-art technology.
Work on the security upgrade project has already begun at Luton airport. The first lanes employing the new technology are expected to open to the public in the fourth quarter of 2023.
