Sensing danger in airports
Security associated with airports and air travel has become an important global issue. Travellers are well aware of the numerous measures taken at the checkpoint to enter the boarding areas. Metal detectors and trained personnel scan persons and baggage and often ask passengers to empty their bags for further inspection. Identifying and tracking suspicious persons throughout the airport terminals even before passing through the official security check could help minimise threats posed by concealed and forbidden items. A European consortium initiated the 'Airport detection and tracking of dangerous materials by passive and active sensors arrays' (ATOM) project to develop the necessary technology to realise such a breakthrough. Scientists are designing functional prototypes of a system integrating radar sensors capable of surveying large airport areas without interrupting normal passenger flow and airport operations. The sensors will be placed at the terminal access (revolving and sliding doors communicating with external spaces) and in airport halls located outside of the security area covered by current security measures. ATOM system architecture has been defined and detection and tracking sensors are being studied. Scientists are developing the data management system that will enable integrated control of information from the sensors. Real-time analyses will enable security personnel to act quickly and in an informed way to minimise risk to other persons in the airport. Scientists have carried out the first simulations of the data management system. Particular attention has been given to compliance with ethical considerations of uninformed surveillance regarding personal health, data and overall privacy. ATOM technology should provide a significant enhancement in airport security translating to fewer in-flight incidents.
