EU Airport Scanners: Algorithm Fails Security Tests
- the latest generation of hand luggage scanners at European airports are under scrutiny from air transport safety authorities.
- While this is more generous than the previous 100-milliliter limit, it still requires travelers to separate larger bottles of liquids when using these scanners.
- brussels has announced that it has received technical details indicating that a specific configuration of Explosive Detection System Equipment for Cabin Baggage (EDSCB), compliant with the C3 standard,...
New CT scanners at European airports are changing the game, but not without a catch: liquids are now limited to 330ml containers due to a software limitation within the HI-SCAN 6040 CTIX system.This means while you can keep items in your bags, oversized liquids face scrutiny. Details show the “20-50-00” algorithm is the primary_keyword behind the change, impacting security protocols. The EU brand for this tech is currently suspended, adding a layer of mystery to the situation. News Directory 3 reports that the tech upgrade means hand luggage can be checked faster and more thoroughly, a boon for travelers. But what does the future hold for these secondary_keyword airport security measures as Smiths Detection works to resolve the software challenges? Discover what’s next …
European Airports impose Liquid Limit on New CT Scanners
Updated January 26, 2024
the latest generation of hand luggage scanners at European airports are under scrutiny from air transport safety authorities. For several months,these scanners have allowed passengers to proceed through security without removing items from their bags,particularly in Italy. Though, a new limitation has been introduced: liquids and gels must now be in containers no larger than 330 milliliters.
While this is more generous than the previous 100-milliliter limit, it still requires travelers to separate larger bottles of liquids when using these scanners.
The Alarm
brussels has announced that it has received technical details indicating that a specific configuration of Explosive Detection System Equipment for Cabin Baggage (EDSCB), compliant with the C3 standard, does not meet the required performance for screening liquids, aerosols, and gels (LAGs) in luggage, according to the Official Gazette of the European Union.
The Limitations
The tool in question is the HI-SCAN 6040 CTIX, created by Smiths Detection, a major company specializing in airport security, along with the “20-50-00” detection algorithm.Authorities state that this configuration can continue to be used in accordance with the operating method applied to EDSCB systems compliant with the C3 standard, but with a maximum volume screening limit of 330 milliliters for individual LAG containers.
The Mystery About the Causes
Brussels has suspended the “EU brand” in the “union database on the security of the logistics chain – safety equipment.” The reasons for this decision remain unclear. It is unknown whether it is due to a specific terrorism threat, a software inability to detect a dangerous substance, or conflicts between national interests. Smiths Detection has not responded to requests for clarification.
How it effectively works
These new scanners reduce check times by half. In airports where they are installed, such as Milan and Rome, security lines move more quickly. Using “smart Security,” these machines perform CT scans on trolleys, backpacks, and bags. Hand luggage is checked faster and more thoroughly because the software directly identifies explosives.The three-dimensional, high-resolution images eliminate the need for travelers to remove liquids, creams, laptops, or tablets.
The Old Model
Airports using older technology rely on X-ray scanners, which cannot show the internal contents of personal items in detail. This necessitates the removal of electronic devices and adherence to the 100-milliliter liquid limit.
What’s next
Travelers should be aware of the new 330ml liquid limit when passing through security at European airports utilizing the HI-SCAN 6040 CTIX scanners. Further updates are expected as Smiths Detection and European authorities address the software limitations.