Tired travelers often whine about airport security measures like removing shoes and discarding unopened water bottles. This can be especially frustrating for a mode of transportation known for long queues and even longer delays. But things are changing - at least in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong International Airport announced that it will soon allow passengers to keep liquids and electronic devices in their carry-on luggage during security checks (via South China Morning Post).

This new policy, effective next week, follows a major upgrade to the airport's security system, costing HK$800 million (US$102 million) and involving the implementation of advanced smart screening technology.

Hong Kong Airport Implements Major Changes in Security Screening

The Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) announced that the new smart security screening system would be introduced in phases over the next two years.

This comprehensive upgrade includes the installation of 50 new smart screening channels and 32 full-body scanners, making HKIA the world's first airport to fully adopt such an advanced security system.

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One of the primary goals of the upgrade is to increase the airport's departure screening capacity by 20%, enabling the processing of approximately 10,000 passengers.

Initially, four new security channels will be installed at the south and north departure halls in Terminal 1. Currently, the airport has 35 security lanes, each handling 240 passengers per hour.

With the new smart system, the number of lanes will be reduced to 28, but each will be capable of processing 360 passengers per hour, significantly enhancing efficiency.

The new system introduces several technological innovations to streamline the security process. These include automated baggage handling trays designed to accommodate three people simultaneously and new CT X-ray machines that generate three-dimensional images for analysis.

This advanced technology reduces scanning times from 15 to 10 seconds and eliminates the need for passengers to remove electronic devices and liquids (under 100ml) from their luggage.

Moreover, the full-body scanners will replace the current manual checks for passengers who set off metal detector arches, reducing physical contact and enhancing privacy. Only a simple outline of the body will be shown on the screen to protect passengers' privacy.

Airport Smart Security Trend

(Photo : Anthony Kwan/Getty Images)

HONG KONG, CHINA - DECEMBER 30: Travellers walk with their luggage at the arrival hall of the Hong Kong International Airport on December 30, 2022 in Hong Kong, China. 

These upgrades aim not only to enhance security but also to improve the overall passenger experience. The smart system includes features such as auto tray recirculation, tray sterilization, and automatic alerts for uncollected items

To ensure the smooth operation of the new system, the airport said that about 3,100 staff members have already been trained.

The introduction of smart security screening at HKIA is part of a broader trend in airport security technology around the world. In 2022, the UK government mandated that all major airports install high-tech security scanners by June 2024.

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