Comment on airport security: electronic surveillance expert Dr James Ferryman says improved x-ray scanners must be used to combat the sophisticated terrorist threat
Release Date 09 July 2014
Dr James Ferryman, from the University of Reading's School of Systems Engineering, said:
"The new checks implemented today suggest new intelligence on the nature of the threat. However intelligence is not an exact science. Technology must evolve quickly to support our security services and ensure air travel is as safe as possible. Terrorists are developing new and sophisticated ways of hiding explosive materials and components inside modern devices such as smart phones. These include plastic and low vapour tetranitrate explosives.
"Surveillance and scanning technology at airports needs to keep one step ahead of the terrorist threat. Current 'x-ray' airport scanners are effective - up to a point. Most are still one generation behind. I'd like to see all airlines/airports use the latest scanning equipment. Multi-energy, complete spectra X-ray scanners have much improved material discrimination capability - including detection of specific explosives. Such technology will be essential when we consider terrorists could conceal explosives in electronic devices which appear to operate normally when switched on.
"Behavioural profiling is also a key weapon for our security services in fighting terrorism. Currently this is done manually, with airport security staff selecting individuals based on a range of criteria. Automated surveillance systems that track potential terrorists for example, through their movements and behaviour, from 'check-in' to 'boarding', are the future."