Employs Intelligence-Driven Risk-Based Measures, Reduces
Intrusive Searches
The first mock-up of a "Checkpoint of the Future," designed to
enhance security while reducing lines and intrusive searches at
airports and using intelligence-driven risk-based measures, was
unveiled this week at The International Air Transport Association
(IATA) 67th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and World Air Transport
Summit in Singapore.
Artist's Concept
"We spend $7.4 billion a year to keep aviation secure. But our
passengers only see hassle. Passengers should be able to get from
curb to boarding gate with dignity. That means without stopping,
stripping or unpacking, and certainly not groping. That is the
mission for the Checkpoint of the Future. We must make coordinated
investments for civilized flying," said Giovanni Bisignani, IATA's
Director General and CEO.
The main concepts of the Checkpoint are (1) strengthened
security by focusing resources where risk is greatest, (2)
supporting this risk-based approach by integrating passenger
information into the checkpoint process, and (3) maximizing
throughput for the vast majority of travelers who are deemed to be
low risk with no compromise on security levels.
"Today's checkpoint was designed four decades ago to stop
hijackers carrying metal weapons. Since then, we have grafted on
more complex procedures to meet emerging threats. We are more
secure, but it is time to rethink everything. We need a process
that responds to today's threat. It must amalgamate intelligence
based on passenger information and new technology. That means
moving from a system that looks for bad objects, to one that can
find bad people," said Bisignani.
The Checkpoint of the Future ends the one-size-fits-all concept
for security. Passengers approaching the checkpoint will be
directed to one of three lanes: 'known traveler', 'normal', and
'enhanced security'. The determination will be based on a biometric
identifier in the passport or other travel document that triggers
the results of a risk assessment conducted by government before the
passenger arrives at the airport.
The three security lanes will have technology to check
passengers according to risk. "Known travelers" who have registered
and completed background checks with government authorities will
have expedited access. "Normal screening" would be for the majority
of travelers. And those passengers for whom less information is
available, who are randomly selected or who are deemed to be an
"Elevated risk" would have an additional level of screening.
Screening technology is being developed that will allow
passengers to walk through the checkpoint without having to remove
clothes or unpack their belongings. Moreover, it is envisioned that
the security process could be combined with outbound customs and
immigration procedures, further streamlining the passenger
experience.
Through the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), 19
governments, including the United States, are working to define
standards for a Checkpoint of the Future. IATA is also coordinating
closely with the US Department of Homeland Security's Checkpoint of
Tomorrow program which has similar goals.
"We have the ability to move to the biometric scanning and
three-lane concept right now. And while some of the technology
still needs to be developed, even by just re-purposing what we have
today, we could see major changes in two or three years time," said
Bisignani.