Perth Airport is hoping that the days of passengers lugging laptops and toiletries from their bags at security are numbered.

It is trialling a new CT x-ray machine and body scanner at its domestic Terminal 1, with plans to install the new equipment across all terminals soon after.

The Rapiscan 920CT x-ray machine uses 3D scanning technology to detect suspicious items in bags, and does not require laptops and items such as aerosols to be removed.

Meanwhile the new body scanner will look for all foreign matter on the passenger, metal and non-metal, and pin-point it to an outline of the person’s body illustrated in the form of an avatar.

The airport said the technology would comply with mandatory changes announced by Australia’s Federal Government last year aimed at strengthening domestic and international aviation security.

Perth Airport CEO Kevin Brown said: “This new equipment is state of the art and we are keen to trial it now to make sure we are fully prepared for its complete roll out in the future.

“Our top priority is to ensure the safety and security of our passengers and their loved ones who come to the airport to see them off. But the added bonus is that it will soon be easier to move through the security screening points.

“Most travellers these days have a laptop or tablet device which they must remove from their luggage for screening. Many travellers also carry aerosol cans such as shaving foam which must also be scanned separately.

“The new system will allow passengers to leave these items in their hand luggage, making for a more streamlined process and less hassle for passengers.”

perthairport.com.au