More than 130 people representing some of the top experts in technology, aviation, security and other industries from around the country converged at Denver International Airport (DEN) for an Aviation Security Innovation Summit.
DEN hosted the summit on Aug. 24-25 at the airport in partnership with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). It was aimed at identifying innovative tools and ideas for developing a new type of security screening experience at DEN that could possibly be replicated at other airports across the United States.
The event brought together industry experts from major technology companies, security detection and defense companies, aviation technology firms, airlines, casinos and cruise companies. The goal of the summit was to address two primary issues: what airports can do today to increase security and improve the traveler experience; and identifying the most important technology or technique airports can learn from other industries now and in the future.
The results of the breakout sessions, group discussions and ideas generated during the summit will help inform plans for DEN’s transformational new passenger screening checkpoints being developed jointly by the airport and TSA. DEN plans to move the existing TSA screening areas from their location on Level 5 of the Jeppesen Terminal, to the north end of Level 6. The move is part of a larger plan to revitalize the airport’s terminal by consolidating and relocating the airline ticket counters, improving the baggage handling system and making substantial improvements to the passenger experience throughout the terminal.
“Security screening at airports today is fundamentally the same as it was when TSA was stood up, almost 15 years ago, despite the great evolution of technology during that period,” airport CEO Kim Day said. “With our partners, TSA and the airlines, we are exploring ideas to create a new prototype for security, not just a new checkpoint, but a new security process – one that enhances the overall experience for travelers while providing for their safety and security. We are grateful to have the support and collaboration of TSA Administrator Peter Neffenger and his team, as well as the expertise of so many industry professionals who participated and generated ideas that will no doubt lead to a new security model that can be emulated by airports across the country, and perhaps the world.”
“TSA is committed to collaborating with our airport, airline and private sector partners to envision next-generation aviation security—from reservation to destination,” said TSA Administrator Peter Neffenger. “Today, with an increasing number of passengers and evolving threats, collaboration is even more important for rethinking the aviation security environment. We look forward to continuing to work with DEN and the entire aviation community to explore new technologies, enhance known traveler programs such as TSA Pre✓®, and create a new national prototype for passenger security.”
