Smiths Detection, a manufacturer of threat detection and security screening technologies based in the US, on Monday announced that its dual-view air cargo scanner has been approved by the TSA.

“The HI-SCAN 145180-2is pro has been added onto the ‘Qualified” section of the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) Air Cargo Screening Technology List (ACSTL) under the latest programme requirements to ensure security of cargo aboard aircraft,” the company stated in a press release.

The ACSTL serves an official guide for regulated parties to use when procuring screening devices and associated trace consumables in accordance with TSA-approved security programmes.

The inspection system, designed to meet the rigorous demands of air cargo screening, is equipped with two 200kV X-ray generators, one of which is uniquely positioned under the conveyor, to deliver excellent penetration, superior image quality, more efficiency, and easy access for maintenance and service, the company explained.

“Due to the majority of air cargo being carried on passenger planes and threats becoming more prevalent and complex, ICAO recommends 100% security screening of consolidated and palletised freight,” said Shan Hood, president of Smiths Detection, assuring that the “state-of-the-art” system will provide air cargo operators with both confidence and compliance.

In related news, the final phase of the ICAO directive to scan 100 percent of cargo for unvalidated and unknown consignors has started in Hong Kong. Under this direction, consignors not subject to approval by the aviation security authority are obliged to be phased out by 30 June 2021.

Hong Kong’s Civil Aviation Department in October 2018 developed the Regulated Air Cargo Screening Facility (RACSF) to enable and regulate air cargo screening at off-airport locations before loading onto aircraft, prompting forwarder U-Freight to invest in X-ray machines at its facility.