Smiths Detection's advanced X-Ray checkpoint deployed for first time in United States

Eight aTiX Security Systems will Provide Sophisticated Screening of Passenger Carry-on Baggage at Albuquerque Airport

Smiths Detection, part of the global technology business Smiths Group, today announced the first deployment of its Advanced Technology (AT) X-ray systems in the United States.

Working closely with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Smiths Detection has installed eight of its Advanced Threat Identification X-rays (aTiX) machines at Albuquerque's international airport. The system was initially field-tested by the TSA alongside several competing systems in the Airport, which is known locally as the Sunport.

Stephen Phipson, Group Managing Director of Smiths Detection, said: "aTiX is a giant step forward in checkpoint screening, increasing the ability to detect potential threats. With its multiple views generating clear images, it provides a revolutionary advance in threat detection and is already widely used in the U.K. It represents a strategic growth opportunity for Smiths Detection both in the U.S. and the rest of the world."

Unlike current X-ray systems, aTiX captures multiple views of carry-on bags in a single sweep in the normal throughput time. Additionally, the system includes powerful software algorithms which help the operator detect potentially harmful items. This software can be easily upgraded to meet any future threat needs.

Mark Laustra, Vice President of Homeland Security for Smiths Detection, said: "We are pleased to have our aTiX systems deployed in Albuquerque's International Sunport. It was specifically designed with the familiar ‘look and feel' of current X-ray screening systems to ensure minimal training was required for airport security officers."

Smiths Detection is the world's leading provider of threat and contraband detection systems with mulitple technologies deployed at around 80% percent of the world's commercial airports.