Located in Kununurra, Western Australia, East Kimberley Regional Airport (KNX) is a critical transport hub for residents, tourists, and essential services in the remote Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley. Operated by the local Council, the airport supports regular passenger transport and charter services, ensuring vital links between the region and major centres such as Darwin and Perth.
Until recently, passengers at KNX experienced an outdated checkpoint process involving the manual removal of laptops and liquids — causing delays and inconsistent screening compared to the Standard 3 systems in place at major airports. Compounding this was a legacy X-ray system with limited service options, leading to frequent and prolonged downtimes due to the airport’s geographic isolation.
Improving the customer journey while ensuring compliance with evolving security expectations became a priority — both to enhance operational resilience and to reflect the region’s aspirations for growth and connectivity.
While Standard 3 screening is only mandated for Tier 1 and designated airports in Australia, East Kimberley Airport made a strategic decision to adopt the higher standard. Driven by a clear vision to modernise infrastructure and improve the passenger journey, the Council recognised that the benefits of CT technology extended well beyond compliance. This forward leaning investment reflects a broader commitment to innovation, service excellence, and aligning regional travel with the expectations set by major domestic hubs.
Smiths Detection delivered a customised solution comprising the HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX and iLane Pro, marking the first installation of its kind at a regional airport in Australia. Installed in March 2024, the system was specifically designed to offer:
Smiths Detection coordinated every stage of the project — from freight and installation to training and a five year comprehensive maintenance agreement. The Council selected Smiths following a competitive tender, valuing its extensive service footprint, proven track
record in remote deployments (including Norfolk Island), and responsiveness across all Australian states and territories.
Kununurra’s location — over eight hours’ drive from the nearest capital — required a solution partner with deep logistical expertise and national reach. Smiths Detection leveraged its support infrastructure in Darwin, Alice Springs, and Perth to ensure timely delivery, technician availability, and long-term service continuity.
The impact has been clear. With no need to unpack personal items at the checkpoint, passenger satisfaction has improved markedly. Travellers now enjoy a smoother, more familiar screening process, strengthening the airport’s reputation as a modern and customer-focused facility. The project aligns strongly with the Council’s broader objective to transform and grow the East Kimberley region — demonstrating a clear commitment to upgrading public infrastructure, attracting investment, and supporting quality of life in
remote communities.