DECEMBER 2024AEROSPACEDEFENSEREVIEW.COM8In My OpinionIn My OpinionOpen Architecture (OA) is set to enhance the status quo for airport security system design, installation, operation and maintenance. OA, also known as the `open platform', enables the interoperability and interfacing of security screening algorithms, hardware and software from different suppliers, all within one solution. It can be applied to checkpoint, hold-baggage and cargo scanning equipment ­ as well as to systems of the wider ecosystem, such as queue management and flight information systems. It is currently gaining momentum within the aviation industry, as it facilitates increased connectivity, integration and data sharing. Its implementation allows airports to incorporate new components into their screening systems through the definition of standard interfaces, which means different systems can work in tandem, talking to each other more efficiently and effectively.Whilst there are several available solutions for addressing current operational issues facing airports, including increased connectivity, centralised image evaluation, and CT technology, OA delivers ultimate flexibility and efficiency by allowing these solutions to be applied across mixed fleets (scanners provided by different manufacturers).Encouraging Data SharingThe adoption of OA can facilitate the sharing of data between airport and security authorities around the world and allows airports to easily enhance their systems with the most advanced algorithms and software on the market to meet growing potential threats. Not only does this improve the security outcome, but it will have a positive knock-on effect on operational efficiency, passenger experience and the airport's ability to meet evolving regulation.OA platforms can facilitate operational efficiency because the systems across different fleets can be updated with the latest algorithms, supporting the sharing of X-ray images and related data. This means that screening results can be shared between departure, transit and arrival airports, despite airports having different fleets and service providers, potentially removing the need for passengers to be rescreened at each airport. These factors could improve passenger flow and remove the need to multiple screening points which in turn would reduce the need for as many operators alleviating the strain caused by staff shortages.Additionally, OA would enhance centralised image evaluation, which enables operators to review screening imagery in remote operator rooms, increasing efficiency by introducing flexibility in terms of operator to scanner ratio through multiplexing.Although airports are focusing on leveraging OA for image sharing, centralised image evaluation and the deployment of third-party algorithms there is yet to be industry best practice for how it should be adopted. As a highly regulated and classified function, it is critical that it is deployed responsibly. Industry stakeholders are therefore currently exploring how the benefits of OA can be unlocked in a way that does not compromise the effectiveness, operational availability or the integrity of screening data.WHY THE FUTURE OF AIRPORT SECURITY SCREENING IS OPEN, INTEGRATED ANDDATA-DRIVENBy Daan Van Vroonhoven, Head of Market North East Europe, Smiths DetectionDaan Van Vroonhoven
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