The Aviation Security Service (AvSec) has awarded British based company Smiths Detection a million-dollar contract to supply checkpoint security technology for five major international airports in the country.
AvSec is part of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and the airports in question are Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Queenstown and Wellington.
The systems to be installed by this year include 35 of the Hi-Scan 604 CTiX computed tomography baggage scanners.
A key feature is that the new scanner is that it speeds up security screening by allowing passengers to leave laptops and liquids in their carry-on baggage.
Smiths Detection also touted its machines as the most energy efficient checkpoint CT X-ray systems on the market.
The UK company will also provide the iLane.evo automatic tray return system, and the iCMORE Weapons detection algorithm that can identify guns and their parts and ammunition, as well as knives, that are concealed in bags.
AvSec's group manager of strategic development Ben Smith said the systems have been in trial at airports already.
They will improve the New Zealand security screening system while also help to enhance passenger faclitiation and experience, Smith said.
The contract was awarded to Smiths Detection's Australian office, and is valued at $13,825,000.
