London City Airport is replacing its existing conventional security X-ray machines with new CT scanners in April 2023.
The new scanners mean that passengers can leave everything in their hand baggage, as the new scanners eliminate the need to remove items, such as laptops and approved liquids, before the bags go through the X-ray machine.
With the capability of processing up to 550 trays per hour, per lane, the scanners should help to speed up the passenger experience at security.
The new scanners were successfully trialled throughout 2022 at one lane alongside the traditional scanners.
LCY expects to have the scanners fully in use by April 2023.
Supplier
The CT scanners are from Leidos. Headquartered in Virginia, USA, Leidos is a big player in airport security. In May 2020 it purchased the Security Detection and Automation Systems division of L3Harris.
Jonathan Stone, Leidos Division Manager and Director of Aviation:
“We’re excited to expand our partnership with London City Airport and enhance their security checkpoints.”
“Leidos focuses on constant innovation and discovery. Through our next-generation technology, airports can achieve high security levels, while providing a better travel experience for their passengers.”
LCY improvements
LCY expects close to 4 million passengers in 2023. It recently announced a £12 million investment programme to modernise the departure lounge,
The airport says feedback from passengers indicated they were keen to see improvements in the number of seats, the standard of washrooms and improved food & beverage options.
The improvements will see 30% more seating (very much needed), two eating places will be replaced and expanded, expanded duty free and retail space, and new and expanded toilets.
No McDonalds but there will be a ‘Champagne Cave’.
I’ve taken part in many surveys at LCY and always highlighted the lack of seats, especially landside. Each time, the surveyor said the lack of landside/arrivals seats was the most requested item.
The improvements are set for completion by Summer 2023.
Alison FitzGerald, Lonnon City Airport Chief Operating Officer:
“Following our one-lane trial this year, we know the new CT scanners are high performing and our passengers love them.
“We are always challenging ourselves to make the LCY experience even better, so this, alongside the £12 million upgrade in the departure lounge will mean the journey through the airport in 2023 will be even slicker, with more space and better food & beverage and retail options.”
N.B. Image credit: London City Airport
