Compliance, increased security and a refined customer experience | Case Studies

Aviation ,

Compliance, increased security and a refined customer experience

Aviation ,

Compliance, increased security and a refined customer experience

When upgrading security screening technology to meet new UK regulations, Centreline’s FBO team took the opportunity to add value to its’ already impeccable customer service. Offering private jet charter and management, aircraft maintenance and executive ground handling as well as FBO facilities, Centreline is based at Bristol airport on a large site away from the main terminals. The company’s mission is to deliver an exceptional experience each and every time.

Finding the right fit

The challenge was to provide a passenger baggage screening solution for the Centreline on-site Silver Lounge to comply with ECAC EDS CB C1 standards – obligatory in the UK from June 2024. It had to be the ‘right fit’ in more ways than one.

Firstly, space was a critical issue and the new equipment had to slot into the existing, very tight layout. At the same time, it was also essential to have the right fit for Centreline customers and their very high expectations.

Having worked with Centreline and the main Bristol airport for many years, Smiths Detection was asked to support the FBO team once again in supplying and commissioning an appropriate system.

HI-SCAN 7555 DV advanced dual-view X-ray system was the suitable choice

We’ve worked closely with Smiths Detection for many years now, and they always deliver a high standard of maintenance and overall service. This point was proven again by providing a smooth process throughout this project. It was a substantial investment for our facility, and the Smiths Detection team supported us all the way up to delivery, which arrived a couple of weeks early.

— Richard Morrison, Head of FBO, Centreline AV Ltd

An ideal solution

A key decision was whether to stick to the required ECAC EDS CB C1 standard or opt for the higher CB C3. Smiths Detection advised that with such a small monthly throughput (50 passengers with 1-5 per flight), CB C1 would be the most suitable choice and suggested the HI-SCAN 7555 DV advanced dual-view X-ray system.

It offers automatic detection of explosives and the dual-view accelerates the screening process by eliminating the need to re-position or re-scan objects. A compact footprint and relatively low weight make it flexible and ideal for restricted spaces.

Installation was very straightforward. The Centreline team disconnected and removed the old system and slotted the new one into position the next day. A Smiths Detection engineer then took over to commission and test the HI-SCAN 7555 DV.

Mission accomplished

The HI-SCAN 7555 DV has met every demand. It has the required ECAC EDS CB C1 certification; fits neatly into the available space; and delivers impressive added value. A massive upgrade in image quality, smart display functions and dual view scanning provide excellent support for operators (in this case from an external security provider). The result is a significant reduction in the number of manual checks – a major improvement when servicing customers who expect the official processes to be handled swiftly and efficiently so they can board aircraft without delay.

Delighting our customers is at the very heart of what we do. We understand that each client has individual requirements and expectations, including the need for a swift journey through our terminal to depart in a timely manner. Streamlining the screening process has been a great success, and we are extremely pleased with the outcome.

— Richard Morrison, Head of FBO, Centreline AV Ltd