Will India's BCAS Finally Approve Full-Body Scanners for Airport Security?
Key Points
- 1BCAS is expected to grant formal approval for full-body scanners (FBS), paving the way for nationwide deployment at Indian airports.
- 2The FBS systems use millimetre-wave technology to detect non-metallic threats, such as plastic explosives, and are non-invasive and radiation-free.
- 3CISF trials at major hubs like Delhi, Bengaluru, Goa, and Cochin have been successful, with results submitted to the regulator.
- 4The deployment is part of a broader CISF security upgrade that includes Facial Recognition Systems and XOVIS passenger flow management software.
The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) is nearing formal approval for airport full-body scanners (FBS). This move will set the stage for widespread deployment across Indian airports. Top officials from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) confirmed the pending regulatory clearance. The CISF is the primary force managing security at most commercial airports.
Enhancing Security Screening
Full-body scanners are advanced aviation security devices. They are designed to detect concealed threats on a person's body. Unlike traditional metal detectors, FBS can identify non-metallic threats detection. This includes plastic explosives, narcotics, and other hidden items. Officials noted that FBS helps address passenger objections to physical frisking.
Millimetre-Wave Technology
These systems use millimetre-wave technology. Low-energy radio waves pass through clothing. The waves reflect off the body and any concealed objects. This process generates an image or flags anomalies for security personnel. This technology is considered non-invasive and radiation-free. It is safe for all travelers, including pregnant women. To protect privacy, the scanners generate a standardized 2D template. This avoids showing specific body contours. The technology is already in use at major international airports globally. It is expected to cut manual frisking time significantly. Manual frisking takes about 30 seconds; the new scanners can complete a check in 15 seconds. This will improve passenger throughput.
Regulatory and Operational Status
The CISF has installed FBS at multiple major airports. These locations include Delhi Airport, Bengaluru Airport, Goa Airport, Cochin Airport, and Chennai Airport. Trials at these sites have been completed and yielded satisfactory results. Results from these extensive trials were submitted to the BCAS. Senior CISF officials have urged BCAS to grant the final nod quickly. Once regulatory clearance is obtained, airport operators can begin importing and installing the scanners. This will allow for phased replacement of older security systems.
Broader Technology Upgrades
In parallel with the FBS rollout, the CISF is implementing other major technology upgrades. These efforts aim to streamline operations and enhance surveillance.
- Facial Recognition: The force has inducted Facial Recognition System technology (FRS). Most airport cameras are now FRS-enabled. This supports the government’s Digi Yatra initiative.
- AI Analytics: The CISF uses an Integrated Command and Control Centre. This center employs artificial intelligence analytics for enhanced observation.
- Passenger Flow: Advanced software is being used for passenger flow management software. The system, named XOVIS, helps in queue management. It provides real-time data on passenger numbers in a queue. Xovis has been a partner for Indian airports since 2016. This helps terminal operators meet operational targets.
These combined CISF security upgrade initiatives reflect a major push. The goal is to modernize Indian airport security. The focus is on combining high-level security with a smoother passenger experience.
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