Heathrow Completes Full Rollout of Advanced CT Security Screening Technology
Published: 10 Apr 2026
Author: Gautam Mahajan
Heathrow Airport completed the rollout of the next-generation computed tomography security screening equipment in all its passenger terminals, which is a significant achievement in its £ 1 billion wide modernization program. Since it is the biggest airport in the world to have instituted the entire overhaul of security screening processes, Heathrow provides a more efficient, fast, and smooth experience to millions of passengers every year.
The upgrade allows passengers to carry liquids, including up to two liters, and electronic gadgets, including laptops and tablets, in their hand luggage on the screening side. This makes the process much easier, cuts down on queue time, and makes the whole experience more convenient for the passengers without affecting the safety standards.
Enhancing Passenger Experience and Security Efficiency
This has been enabled by the use of the advanced CT scanners, such as HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX, by Smiths Detection. Its systems use high-resolution 3D volumetric imaging and automated threat-detecting systems to give better information about the contents in the baggage. This will decrease the number of checks carried out manually and increase the number of checks that would be at the security checkpoints. It will be capable of achieving the C3 standard, which is the utmost correction of cabin baggage screening and an assurance of enhanced detection and proficiency.
Andy Evripides, Head of Market UK and Ireland at Smiths Detection, says that implementation is an indicator of a good relationship that is in progress in the areas of security performance, operating performance, and passenger satisfaction.
According to Precedence Research, the air cargo security screening systems market size was calculated at USD 1.20 billion in 2025 and is predicted to increase from USD 1.29 billion in 2026 to approximately USD 2.47 billion by 2035, expanding at a CAGR 7.50% from 2026 to 2035, fueled by the increasing demand for advanced levels of threat detection, automation, and faster and more reliable screening of logistics.
Industry Impact and Future Outlook
The adoption of the CT screening technology at Heathrow Airport can be considered a broader trend in the industry to adopt the utilization of high-tech solutions and artificial intelligence to improve security in the airline sector. The next-generation screening solutions in airports are increasingly popular in the world due to their functionality in enhancing safety and compliance with new regulatory requirements and passenger flow. This revolution justifies the fact that the recent images, automation, and smart detection systems must be included in the airport infrastructures.