Technology set to foil terrorists

Technological advances in x-ray imaging look set to provide a vital advantage to airport security teams around the world when it comes to averting terrorist bomb plots.

Researchers at Keele University have engineered new equipment to provide better quality images – and a more cost-effective way of producing them for detecting specific items – than the conventional x-ray method.

So-called 'specific element' imaging is highly desirable for airport security as it can better detect explosive devices that might be camouflaged by an image of, say, a tube of toothpaste or the heel of a shoe. Until now, the equipment capable of achieving this level of screening has been too large, far too costly and impractical for use in airports.

Security systems developer Honeywell has vowed to help the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) – and the airline operators in general – to improve air travel safety around the globe by introducing several new technology developments.

Near-term projects (to be carried out over the next three to 12 months) include the development of hardened cockpit doors, systems aimed at alerting flight crew and ground authorities in the event of an attempted hijacking and improved flight data and cockpit voice recorders.

Other near-term security system improvements slated for inclusion in the programme will centre on:

mode 'S' transponders for all aircraft that will transmit aircraft identification, speed, differential GPS position and other relevant information to ground-based authorities;

advanced fire detection and smoke control systems to protect airport buildings and their occupants;