If you have been to the airport in the last ten years you know what I’m talking about when I say that going through security is a tedious exercise. On top of which, most experts say is ineffectual at best. There has to be a better system!

I just found this article from the blog “Travel Industry News” which outlines a new security system that could scan a passenger in as little as five seconds.

“A new airport screening “tunnel” could see passengers clearing security in as little as five seconds.  It would mean no undressing, no shoes off, no unpacking computers, no guilt at finding that errant coin in your pocket.  Just walk on by. 

The 21 feet long smart tunnel combines all existing and imminent security technology in one place and would slash the time passengers wait at airports. Travellers simply walk the length of the tunnel while they are scanned. 

The downside - while a version is expected to be on trial within 18 months, it could five years before it is rolled out for general use at major airports.

IATA unveiled a prototype of the new technology in Singapore yesterday.

It features screening methods which are either already in place at airports – such as body scanners – and those which are expected to be introduced soon, including liquid detectors. 

The IATA system would divide passengers into three categories, who would initially be identified by an iris-recognition system before entering the arches. 

So-called “known travellers” who have been pre-screened would only face an x-ray, metal and liquid detector. 

“Normal travellers” would also have their shoes scanned automatically and pass through an explosive trace detector. 

Anyone whose behaviour raised concern – such as a passenger buying a one way ticket in cash – would go through a different channel which would also feature a full body scanner.”
I don’t know about you, but this technology could not come sooner.