O R Tambo International implements Smart Security checkpoint

Johannesburg's O R Tambo International Airport has become the first African airport to implement the Smart Security checkpoint.
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The system, which came in to effect on November 8, will digitise the security check process, speed up passenger progress through security and further enhance security through use of state-of-the-art scanners.

Bongiwe Pityi, general manager of O R Tambo International Airport, said: “O R Tambo International is consistently rated highly in independent customer surveys and we believe that the advent of Smart Security will further improve the passenger experience.

She added: “Passengers will find that with the new system there will almost be no need for physical pat-downs of passengers who set off security alarms because the scanning technology is much better at detecting objects that should not be carried on or around the person.”

The Smart Security programme is part of Airports Company South Africa’s 2025 vision to be the most sought-after partner in the world for the provision of sustainable airport management solution.

“The Smart Security programme is going to enhance the airport’s global security ranking and enhance our ability to counter emerging threats at airports while increasing operational efficiency and improving passenger experience,” says Pityi.

“This programme will play a pivotal role in ensuring that Airports Company South Africa moves from being an airport business that runs technology to being a digital business that runs airports. As a business we believe digitisation enhances our ability to deliver great customer experiences and our ability to grow and innovate,” says Tebogo Mekgoe, chief operating officer for Airports Company South Africa.