27-11-2023 (SINGAPORE) Changi Airport, one of the world’s busiest air travel hubs, is trialing an innovative security system that utilizes artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning to automatically detect prohibited items in carry-on luggage. The system, known as an Automated Prohibited Items Detection System (Apids), is being tested at Terminal 3 and aims to expedite security checks for passengers by up to 50%.
Changi Airport Group (CAG) reported that the AI-powered system processes images from X-ray machines used to screen cabin baggage at the boarding gate. This automation not only reduces the time needed to interpret X-ray images but also minimizes the risk of human error. Prohibited items in carry-on bags include potentially dangerous substances like insecticides, cigarette lighters, and sharp objects such as pocket knives.
The initial trial results have shown promise, with the AI-powered system performing on par with, or even better than, human security screeners in identifying certain prohibited items it has been trained to detect. While CAG has not disclosed specific details about the trial due to security reasons, reports suggest that AI algorithms can screen X-ray images up to five times faster than human operators.
The Apids technology is still in its early stages, and its current role is to assist security officers by highlighting potential threats in carry-on bags. The long-term objective is to enhance automation, enabling security officers to manually review only flagged bags, similar to the process for checked baggage screening.
Changi Airport, recognizing security screening as a labor-intensive operation, aims to optimize manpower resources and potentially reduce clearance times by up to 50%. The airport, which handles tens of thousands of carry-on bags daily, faces the challenge of efficiently detecting a wide variety of prohibited items. The Apids system, capable of processing both 2D and 3D images, is seen as a strategic augmentation to enhance security screening capabilities.
As the trial progresses, Changi Airport will assess the technology’s maturity and consider expanding its use across the airport, potentially transforming security operations and improving overall efficiency in one of the most critical touchpoints at the airport.
