The second meeting of the Security Advisory Council to Civil Aviation (SACCA) was held in Delhi recently under the chairmanship of the Secretary, Dr Nasim Zaidi. The meeting was attended by Vayalar Ravi, Union Minister of Civil Aviation and Overseas Indian Affairs.

Addressing the meeting, the Minister said that the challenge in aviation security is to develop a robust security system for tackling the security challenges posed by criminals with the help of advanced technologies and methods. He said that the Ministry of Civil Aviation is constantly examining the need for infusion of new modalities and technologies for fast and secure clearance of passengers and their baggage.

He further said that the meeting was significant as the inputs and interaction of stakeholders, users regulatory authority and Government bodies would create an environment of aviation security, while ensuring the passenger facilitation.

Highlighting the initiatives taken by the Ministry on aviation security, Dr Zaidi said that the new Aircraft (Security) Rules, 2011 was framed for the first time, which is under process of notification. He said that the anti-hijack Act of 1982 is being amended to include severe punishment to those indulging in such acts. He suggested that the passengers’ convenience and passenger friendly aspects should also be part of the security mechanism.

The Commissioner of Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) highlighted initiatives taken with regard to airport security and that includes around 16,000 persons getting training in civil aviation security this year to compared to 9,000 last year.

SAIC to upgrade scanning systems for TSA Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) announced it has received a $25 million order from the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to upgrade 210 Reveal Imaging CT-80 systems to its next-generation CT-80DR.

The CT-80DR is based on Reveal’s proven CT technology and performance and will provide the TSA with enhanced capabilities in checked baggage screening. Reveal, a whollyowned subsidiary of SAIC, developed and has deployed hundreds of reduced-sized explosive detection systems in the United States and internationally. The Reveal CT-80DR system features proprietary dual-energy computed tomography (CT) X-ray technology that provides enhanced detection and false alarm rate performance at an economical price.

“We are pleased to continue to support TSA in enhancing aviation security through advanced technology deployment,” said Alex Preston, SAIC Senior Vice President and business unit General Manager. “As threats to aviation grow and evolve, we remain a committed partner with TSA in the inspection and detection of these threats and the protection of the aviation community.”