The daa – which operates Dublin and Cork Airports – has started trialling new enhanced x-ray screening technology ultimately aimed at significantly improving the passenger experience at both airports by removing the need to separate laptops and liquids from bags while going through airport security.
While this is the long-term aim, the project is currently at a very early stage – with trialling only underway at Dublin Airport at the moment.
The current rules around laptops and other electronic equipment having to be scanned separately – and no liquids of more than 100ml in volume being allowed in baggage – remain in place at this time.
It is understood that there will be significant structural works required inside the terminals at both Dublin and Cork airports to facilitate the new machines before they will be finally deployed following the trial period.
It is also understood that if and when the trials are successful, tendering and procurement for the necessary civil works will be necessary in the first instance, before the daa actually purchases any of the new machines.
However, the trials are aimed at doing away with those policies in the longer term and, ultimately, making passengers’ security experiences more streamlined and easier in the future.
Kevin Cullinane, daa group head of communications, said: “daa continues to implement the EU-wide aviation security regulation in relation to the 100ml limit for liquids, lotions, gels and pastes at Dublin and Cork airports. daa is currently trialling new enhanced x-ray technology at Dublin Airport. As Dublin Airport has over 30 x-ray machines, across two terminals, this will be a complex process.
Regarding Cork Airport, Mr Cullinane said: “The recent announcement of €6 million in exchequer funding in Budget 2023 will be put towards the upgrading of the passenger security screening area at Cork Airport next year. This project will involve the purchase of new state-of-the-art equipment as well as the completion of significant civil works within the terminal building at Dublin and Cork airports. When installed, the new technology at Dublin and Cork airports will end the need to remove laptops and liquids from cabin baggage and will enhance the overall customer experience for passengers.
