Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport is set to begin trials of full body scanners in May, with the aim of reducing passenger wait time. The airport’s operator, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), announced that the scanners will generate standardized 2D images on a preset human avatar, ensuring that no personal images are stored in the system.
Four full body scanners have been procured, with two located at Terminal 1 (T1) and two at Terminal 3 (T3). DIAL expects that these scanners will help reduce passenger wait time at the airport.
“The IT interface for these machines is being finalised, and upon completion of the three-to-four-month trial, a BCAS-led committee will evaluate the findings and establish a Standard Operating Procedure (SoP) for full-scale implementation,” DIAL said in a release on Friday.
The scanners utilise millimeter-wave technology, and function within the 70-80 GHz range. In contrast to their X-ray equivalents, these machines do not provide any form of radiation. These are safe to use on anyone, whether pregnant females or those sporting medical implants.
The trials will start in May, as per the new guidelines issued by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS).
DIAL reported that these new scanners are capable of detecting both metallic and non-metallic threats, such as explosives, providing a much better alternative to traditional metal detectors. Each scan lasts only three seconds, with a maximum rate of 1,200 scans per hour, making the process quicker and more efficient.
DIAL also explained that the scanners will generate a standardized 2D image on a preset human avatar, ensuring no personal images are stored. The machines will be equipped with four touch screen monitors for image evaluation and passenger guidance, and can scan individuals between 3.3 feet and 6.7 feet in height.
“All scan data is stored securely with access restricted to authorised agencies, ensuring both security and convenience for travellers,” the release said.
DIAL’s CEO, Videh Kumar Jaipuriar, expressed confidence that the new scanners will streamline security checks without compromising privacy.
This new initiative follows the successful trials of full body scanners at major international airports, including those in the US, Canada, and Australia. Bengaluru’s airport has also been conducting similar trials for nearly a year.
(With inputs from PTI)