Smiths Detection Signs New Zealand Hold Baggage Screening Agreement

Smiths Detection will upgrade Hold Baggage Screening X-ray systems (HBS) across New Zealand to EU Standard 2 under a newly signed agreement with the New Zealand Aviation Security Service (Avsec), part of the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

The agreement, signed after an open tender process, will see the new HBS in operation before the end of 2013 with Smiths Detection maintaining the capability through to 2022. The current HBS fleet was installed by Smiths Detection in 2005.

Cameron Mann, Managing Director of Smiths Detection Australia and New Zealand, said: “I am extremely proud that Smiths Detection has been selected to provide the technical solution to meet the CAA’s aviation security needs. Our EDX-2is Explosives Detection System is the most widely deployed EU Standard 2 screening system in the world, and Smiths Detection has a dedicated service team based in Auckland and Christchurch to maintain the systems.”

Mark Everitt, General Manager of Avsec, said: “Avsec and Smiths Detection have had an on-going relationship since the early 2000s. With Avsec being a 24/7 operation across six international airports, the service and after-hours support provided by Smiths Detection has been outstanding. As we now move forward into the implementation phase, I am sure that Avsec, along with Smiths Detection and other key stakeholders, will achieve the required operational implementation date of 1 January 2014.”

X-ray scanners that meet the EU standard 2 level for the detection of explosives in hold baggage combine advanced multi-view capability, high throughput speed and low false alarm rates.

Smiths Detection offers advanced security solutions in civil and military markets worldwide, developing and manufacturing government-regulated technology products that identify explosives, chemical and biological agents, weapons and contraband. It is part of Smiths Group, www.smiths.com, a global technology company which is listed on the London Stock Exchange (SMIN). A world leader in the practical application of technologies, Smiths Group products and services for the threat & contraband detection, medical devices, energy and communications markets worldwide. Our products and services make the world safer, healthier and more productive. Smiths Group employs more than 23,000 people in over 50 countries.