Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl) is beefing up security at its SuperTerminal 1 facility, with the introduction of its own robot patrol.

The first security robot is about to enter service and will initial patrol parking areas and export goods handling premises. It will mainly operate during the peak night-time period but could also be deployed during daylight hours as required, Hactl noted.

In addition to stepping up anti-theft measures and reinforcing awareness of its rigid security programme, Hactl said the new security robots will monitor the condition of cargo throughout the company’s huge site, and will record any incidents of damage, to provide video evidence in the event of claims investigations.

The robot, which can operate on any paved surface, features a thermal imaging camera, a high-resolution camera with a wiper for outdoor use, a LiDar technology sensor for navigation and multiple ultrasonic sensors for collision avoidance.

“The security robots will complement our existing CCTV system, providing footage from more angles to assist in security and cargo claims evaluation,” said Wilson Kwong, chief executive of Hactl.

“By reducing reliance on human patrols, we are freeing up valuable night shift security staff resources to focus on making our security regime even more proactive, flexible and responsive to any incidents. This is a significant step forward in strengthening our overall security programme.”

Earlier in April, Hactl teamed up with Qatar Airways Cargo to trial the use of canine technical detection dogs to sniff out hidden lithium batteries in air cargo.