Smiths Detection wins multiple Japanese security contracts

Smiths Detection has announced a number of deals in Japan to boost its presence there. The deals include partnerships with Hiroshima International Airport and Miyazaki International Airport. Through a partnership with Japan Airlines, Smiths Detection has also deployed technology at Haneda Airport, Ishigaki Airport and Okadama Airport. The technical overhauls at Haneda, Ishigaki, Okadama, Hiroshima, and Miyazaki airports will feature the company’s HI-SCAN 6040 CTIX Model S scanners and iLane A20 automatic tray return systems. Driven by artificial intelligence and high-resolution 3D imaging, the new checkpoints will eliminate the need for travelers to remove electronic devices, liquids, and gels from carry-on bags, permitting liquids up to two litres to remain inside. “Japan’s aviation security requirements are both complex and exacting, shaped by high passenger volumes, domestic connectivity and the country’s position as a major international destination,” said Peter Hallatt, Market Head of APAC at Smiths Detection. “This agreement strengthens our collaboration with Japan Airlines and supports more efficient, effective screening across its airport network. Together, we are helping passengers move through security with greater confidence and ease.” The technological upgrades follow distinct timelines tailored to each airport location: Haneda Airport (Tokyo): Japan Airlines will deploy four HI-SCAN 6040 CTIX Model S scanners and four iLane A20 systems at its Global Club premium checkpoints in Terminal 1. The hardware will be operational in the North Terminal by September 2026 and in the South Terminal by January 2027. Ishigaki Airport: Two HI-SCAN 6040 CTIX Model S scanners and two iLane A20 systems were already successfully installed and operational as of March 2026. Okadama Airport: One scanner and one tray return system will be integrated, with completion slated for March 2027. Hiroshima International Airport: The hub will install two HI-SCAN 6040 CTIX Model S scanners and two iLane A20 systems to enhance passenger safety and support broader modernization milestones. Miyazaki International Airport: Both systems are now fully operational, notably marking the world’s first deployment of the iLane A20’s flat conveyor configuration. Commenting on the expansion at Miyazaki, Hallatt noted that with global air travel projected to reach nearly 19 billion passengers by 2047, airports are under escalating pressure to deliver smoother experiences. “We are proud to support Miyazaki International Airport with screening systems designed to enhance checkpoint flow and make more efficient use of space,” Hallatt said. The centrepiece of the multi-airport contract—the HI-SCAN 6040 CTIX Model S—boasts a 20-centimetre width reduction and a 350-kilogram weight reduction compared to traditional configurations. This space-saving design allows it to be easily integrated into checkpoints with stringent layout and size constraints. The system features a gantry that rotates at a constant speed to capture hundreds of images in real time, forming high-quality 3D models for security personnel. The user interface previously won a Red Dot Award in 2020 for fast and intuitive 3D image evaluation. While the baseline HI-SCAN 6040 CTIX model holds numerous global certifications—including European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC) EDS CB C3 approval, TSA APSS v6.2 Level 1 certification, and approvals from STAC, ENAC, and IPMO—these approval processes are currently underway for the newly engineered Model S variant. To bolster safety, the scanners can be integrated with iCMORE, Smiths Detection’s automated object recognition software designed to flag prohibited weapons. The accompanying iLane A20 intelligent lanes are designed to increase throughput and reduce queues by utilising system performance data and health monitoring to ensure high equipment availability. The lanes feature a modular structure that configures automatically upon connection, simplifying installation, maintenance, and servicing for airport operators. Technology & Deployment Summary Haneda Airport (JAL Terminal 1): 4x HI-SCAN 6040 CTIX Model S, 4x iLane A20. Completion by Sept. 2026 (North Terminal) and Jan. 2027 (South Terminal). Ishigaki Airport: 2x HI-SCAN 6040 CTIX Model S, 2x iLane A20. Completed in March 2026. Okadama Airport: 1x HI-SCAN 6040 CTIX Model S, 1x iLane A20. Completion by March 2027. Hiroshima International Airport: 2x HI-SCAN 6040 CTIX Model S, 2x iLane A20. Procurement finalised. Miyazaki International Airport: 1x HI-SCAN 6040 CTIX Model S, 1x iLane A20. Fully operational; global debut of the flat conveyor design. For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Matt Driskill at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Head of Sales Sally Passey at [email protected]