Heathrow Airport optimizes security check with new 3D scanners

Heathrow Airport Optimizes Security Check with New 3D Scanners

London’s Heathrow Airport is implementing new 3D scanners that eliminate the need for passengers to remove liquids from their bag as they go through security.

  • By Kaitlyn DeHaven
  • Jun 11, 2019

Passengers at London’s Heathrow Airport may be able to keep their liquids inside their carry-on bags as they pass through security in as soon as three years.

The airport is investing over £50 million ($63 million) in new scanners that can see inside passengers’ luggage in greater detail than they can currently. Present scanners only use X-ray technology, but these new scanners use the technology CT (computer tomography) scanners use in hospitals in order to see bones, blood vessels, and soft tissues inside the body.

The technology will hopefully optimize security queues and help the environment by cutting down the number of plastics passengers use to store their liquids. This is part of Heathrow’s long-term sustainability plan, as it plans to open a third runway in 2026, which will greatly increase airport traffic.

Chris Garton, Heathrow’s chief operations officer, said the airports mission to ensure passengers have pleasant journeys is part of the reason the facility is so pleased to roll out the new CT equipment.

“This cutting-edge kit will not only keep the airport safe with the latest technology, but will mean that our future passengers can keep their focus on getting on with their journeys and less time preparing for security screening,” Garton said.

These scanners will not affect the global restriction on flying with liquids greater than 100ml (3.4oz). These liquid restrictions were first implemented because in an X-ray scanner, liquid explosives can’t be differentiated from regular liquids.

The airport has been working with the Department of Transport since 2017 to trial the 3D CT scanners, and it will be the first UK airport to implement a CT scanner trial.

About the Author

Kaitlyn DeHaven is the Associate Content Editor for the Infrastructure Solutions Group at 1105 Media.

Featured

  • First, Do No Harm: Responsibly Applying Artificial Intelligence

    It was 2022 when early LLMs (Large Language Models) brought the term “AI” into mainstream public consciousness and since then, we’ve seen security corporations and integrators attempt to develop their solutions and sales pitches around the biggest tech boom of the 21st century. However, not all “artificial intelligence” is equally suitable for security applications, and it’s essential for end users to remain vigilant in understanding how their solutions are utilizing AI. Read Now

  • Improve Incident Response With Intelligent Cloud Video Surveillance

    Video surveillance is a vital part of business security, helping institutions protect against everyday threats for increased employee, customer, and student safety. However, many outdated surveillance solutions lack the ability to offer immediate insights into critical incidents. This slows down investigations and limits how effectively teams can respond to situations, creating greater risks for the organization. Read Now

  • Security Today Announces 2025 CyberSecured Award Winners

    Security Today is pleased to announce the 2025 CyberSecured Awards winners. Sixteen companies are being recognized this year for their network products and other cybersecurity initiatives that secure our world today. Read Now

  • Empowering and Securing a Mobile Workforce

    What happens when technology lets you work anywhere – but exposes you to security threats everywhere? This is the reality of modern work. No longer tethered to desks, work happens everywhere – in the office, from home, on the road, and in countless locations in between. Read Now

  • TSA Introduces New $45 Fee Option for Travelers Without REAL ID Starting February 1

    The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced today that it will refer all passengers who do not present an acceptable form of ID and still want to fly an option to pay a $45 fee to use a modernized alternative identity verification system, TSA Confirm.ID, to establish identity at security checkpoints beginning on February 1, 2026. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • Unified VMS

    AxxonSoft introduces version 2.0 of the Axxon One VMS. The new release features integrations with various physical security systems, making Axxon One a unified VMS. Other enhancements include new AI video analytics and intelligent search functions, hardened cybersecurity, usability and performance improvements, and expanded cloud capabilities

  • HD2055 Modular Barricade

    Delta Scientific’s electric HD2055 modular shallow foundation barricade is tested to ASTM M50/P1 with negative penetration from the vehicle upon impact. With a shallow foundation of only 24 inches, the HD2055 can be installed without worrying about buried power lines and other below grade obstructions. The modular make-up of the barrier also allows you to cover wider roadways by adding additional modules to the system. The HD2055 boasts an Emergency Fast Operation of 1.5 seconds giving the guard ample time to deploy under a high threat situation.

  • Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems, an industry-leading manufacturer of pedestrian and vehicle secure entrance control access systems, is pleased to announce the release of its groundbreaking V07 software. The V07 software update is designed specifically to address cybersecurity concerns and will ensure the integrity and confidentiality of Automatic Systems applications. With the new V07 software, updates will be delivered by means of an encrypted file.