10 Feb First walk-through scanner at Frankfurt Airport
Every day, up to 18,000 passengers pass through the security checkpoint in Terminal 1, Hall A, at Frankfurt Airport. According to the airport operator Fraport, the world’s first walk-through scanner has been in test operation there for around a year. The German Federal Police has now certified and approved the QPS Walk2000 from Rohde & Schwarz for permanent use as aviation security screening technology.
Interruption only for follow-up checks
The QPS Walk2000 provides significantly more convenience at the security checkpoint: instead of remaining in a fixed position during the check as before, travelers pass through the walk-through scanner at normal walking speed. The millimeter wave technology used here also penetrates clothing. A gender-neutral avatar displays potentially dangerous objects precisely and in real time. If follow-up checks are necessary, aviation security personnel can concentrate on the displayed alarm area instead of scanning the entire passenger.
Convenient with a high level of security
“With the 360° walk-through scanner, we are the first airport in the world to set a new standard for passenger checks in air traffic,” emphasizes Alexander Laukenmann, Head of Aviation at Fraport. “During the test phase, we were able to optimize the device for operation together with the German Federal Police and thus ensure the basis for certification. For our customers and passengers, we are thus continuing to consistently rely on the latest technology for faster and more convenient security checks while maintaining the same high level of security.”
Andreas Hägele, Head of Microwave Imaging at Rohde & Schwarz, comments: “The successful evaluation of the walk-through scanner at Frankfurt Airport, which was carried out jointly by the Federal Police and Fraport, is an example of the excellent cooperation between all parties involved.” Hägele continues: “We are very proud to be able to make a contribution to a modern, innovative and globally new form of passenger screening at airports.”
According to Fraport, there are plans to use the system at further checkpoints in Terminal 1 and the forthcoming Terminal 3.
Source and image: www.rohde-schwarz.com
