First x-ray imaging system for entire airfreight containers in operation Lufthansa Cargo is utilising new-generation x-ray technology in its security regime. The new systems scan the entire contents of airfreight containers for the first time instead of individual shipments. Supplied by the Smiths Heimann company, the systems will be used in Frankfurt.
Munich and Johannesburg to enhance the efficiency of security screening of air cargo. More of the systems are to be procured at a later date.
The new equipment, with a tunnel size of 1.8 x 1.8 metres, scans entire LD3 airfreight containers
through-and-through, without having to open them to x-ray individual shipments inside. Moreover,
the two generators can scan along the sides of the containers as well as from above. Not only
does the new technology enhance security, it is also more efficient.
The new technology will enable Lufthansa Cargo to comply with US security requirements for air
cargo: All inbound and outbound cargo on passenger aircraft to the USA must be 100%
screened from August 2010. That regulation has been in force for 50% of shipments since
February this year.
Customers will also benefit: Up to now, EU regulations have required shippers to be certified as
"known consignors" or "regulated agents". That will not necessarily apply in future, since
Lufthansa Cargo can guarantee the required security standard by screening entire containers.
"Our aim is to create a security regime that suits customers," emphasised Lufthansa
Cargo security chief Harald Zielinski. "We can guarantee top security standards at any
one time only by investing consistently in innovative technology. With that approach,
Lufthansa Cargo can entrench its position as industry leader in international airfreight
security and offer its customers security at the cutting edge."
Lufthansa Cargo is investing a further two-digit euro millions in security measures in 2009.
Lufthansa Cargo is staging its second security conference in Frankfurt on 4 March next year. On
the agenda are presentations and discussions with prestigious national and international experts
on current trends and perspectives in air cargo security. Besides analysing the international
security situation, the conference will look into the background of security regulations and discuss
the technological, process and personnel challenges in the security debate.