Full-Body Scanner Trials To Begin At Delhi Airport In May; Aiming To Enhance Security & Speed

Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) announced on Friday that it will begin full-body scanner trials at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport in May, deploying two scanners each at Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.

The trial period will last for approximately three to four months.

According to a DIAL spokesperson, “The IT interface for these machines is being finalised, and upon completion of the three-to-four-month trial, a Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS)-led committee will evaluate the findings and establish a Standard Operating Procedure (SoP) for full-scale implementation.”

Safe & Efficient Scanning

The scanners use millimetre-wave technology, which does not emit harmful radiation, making them safe for all passengers, including pregnant women and individuals with medical implants.

These scanners, unlike traditional X-ray machines, actively protect passenger privacy and speed up movement through security.

Each scan takes approximately three seconds, with the capability to process up to 1,200 passengers per hour, potentially reducing wait times and bottlenecks at security checkpoints.

Improved Threat Detection

Unlike conventional metal detectors, the new scanners can detect both metallic and non-metallic threats, including concealed explosives.

This feature marks a significant upgrade in the airport’s ability to handle modern security challenges.

DIAL said the technology is already in use at major global hubs including airports in the US, Canada, and Australia.

However, past trials of similar scanners at IGI Airport revealed certain flaws.

In previous tests, scanners were unable to detect objects such as coins, blades, 9mm bullets, and items located outside the primary detection range,  like below the ankle or above the chin.

Moreover, traditional Indian attire such as sarees posed detection challenges, highlighting the need for more localized calibration.

Officials stated that this trial period will allow agencies to test the scanners in live conditions and assess how effectively they detect different types of threats.

The findings will be submitted to BCAS, which will make the final decision regarding full deployment across Indian airports.

A Step Towards Seamless Travel

Videh Kumar Jaipuriar, CEO of DIAL, described the new system as a ‘game changer’ for security screening.

“Our focus is on making air travel more convenient for passengers, and these trials, planned in accordance with government guidelines, will help us evaluate the system’s efficiency before a full-scale roll-out,” he said.

With India witnessing a steady rise in air traffic, airport authorities hope that this move will streamline the security process while maintaining the highest safety standards.

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