Hamad International Airport installed an innovative screening technology at its security checkpoint to deliver unprecedented levels of security, customer service and efficiency. Installed at HIA’s transfers hall, the new technology is part of the airport’s Smart Security Programme, aimed at deploying advanced screening technological solutions across the wider airport campus and part of the airport expansion.

With the new innovation, passengers do not need to remove liquids or larger electronic items from bags. It can process passengers faster by allowing six passengers to load items into trays simultaneously. Passenger boarding pass scanners prior to screening electronically tags each passengers’ belongings to their boarding card. When passengers remove these items from the tray, the system scans the tray to make sure no items are left behind. The technology also includes shoe-screening capability, conducted in just a few seconds, meaning passengers do not have to remove footwear.

Another system in the works includes a remote screening management system for cabin baggage that keeps the system belt moving during the image evaluation process and provides a high detection and low false-alarm rate, meaning fewer random checks. Outfitted with UV-C modules, this system also disinfects each and every tray before passenger use. HIA is fast tracking this technology to be one of the first global airports to roll it out across its departures and transfers passenger screening lanes later this year.

“With the passenger experience at the core of HIA operations, we are always searching for ways to elevate the passenger journey. The introduction of this advanced technology is born out of our growing partnership with the leading technology expert, Smiths Detection, and represents our shared dedication to creating and trialing technological solutions for the delivery of a seamless and secure experience at important checkpoints throughout the terminal,” said Saeed Yousef Al-Sulaiti, vice president of security, Hamad International Airport. “We are proud to have harnessed the power of technology to enhance our operational excellence and passenger experience. We realize the potential of such an efficient security screening technology and look forward to delivering a truly secure and convenient screening process for all.”

Are you a frequent traveler through Hamad International Airport? Are you excited to travel through this technology and see how much it speeds up the process? Tell us. Email us at letters@globaltravelerusa.com. Please include your full name and location.