Smiths advanced X-ray checkpoint deployed for first time in US

Smiths Detection, part of the global technology business Smiths Group, today announced the first deployment of its advanced X-ray checkpoint systems in a US airport.

Working closely with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Smiths Detection has installed eight of its Advanced Threat Identification X-rays (aTiX) machines at Albuquerque’s international airport.  aTix can automatically detect explosives and liquids, thus improving carry-on bag screening and enhancing airline passenger security.  

Stephen Phipson, Group Managing Director of Smiths Detection, said: “aTiX is a giant step forward in checkpoint screening, greatly helping TSA security officers' ability to detect potential threats. With its multiple views generating clear images, it provides a revolutionary advance in threat detection and is already widely used in the U.K.  It represents a strategic growth opportunity for Smiths Detection both in the U.S. and the rest of the world.”

Unlike current X-ray systems, aTiX captures multiple views of carry-on bags in a single sweep in the normal throughput time.  Additionally, the system includes powerful software algorithms which help the operator detect liquids and explosives. This software can be easily upgraded to meet any future threat needs.

Smiths Detection is the world’s leading provider of threat and contraband detection systems with mulitple technologies deployed at around 80% percent of the world’s commercial airports.