FKI Logistex Baggage Handling Systems (BHS) Team has been selected to lead two key projects for Florida's Jacksonville International Airport (JIA) as it expands its existing international terminal. Recently named an inline explosive detection screening pilot site by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), JIA is one of an elite group of participants in the pilot program.
JIA and its contractor, Centex Construction Group, jointly selected FKI Logistex to design, install, and integrate a 100% Hold Baggage Screening (HBS) system that incorporates the CTX9000™ Explosion Detection System (EDS), as well as the world's first all-RFID baggage tracking and identification systems.
"Jacksonville International has been recognized as being on the forefront of airport security around the world," said Van Dyke Walker, director of planning and development for JIA. "With more than 60 years experience in baggage handling systems and their expanded range of integration expertise, FKI Logistex was the natural choice for this project."
Expansion Includes 100% HBS and Level 3 Certified EDS
The expansion of JIA incorporates new ticket counters, inbound and outbound systems, and two new baggage sortation lines that include a high-speed pier sortation system. The team will also be installing and integrating a 100% HBS system as mandated by the Federal
Aviation Administration (FAA) and the TSA. The two agencies have issued a directive to domestic airports to implement 100% HBS by the end of the 2002 calendar year. JIA and FKI Logistex expect to be on target for the deadline, making JIA one of the first US airports to meet the tightened screening requirements.
The new baggage screening area is constructed to provide the highest level of security possible. Its matrix design allows for redundant screening of baggage to eliminate opportunities for bags to pass through uncleared. Baggage that fails the automated Level 1 screening is returned through the system and is subjected to Level 3 screening; any bags failing Level 3 screening are then removed to undergo manual Explosion Trace Detection screening.
To ensure the most efficient passenger flow possible, the automated 100% HBS system integrates high-speed traditional sortation equipment provided by FKI Logistex that includes conveyors and automated baggage diverters with five inline CTX9000 EDS screening units from Newark, CA-based InVision Technologies. One of only two EDSs to be certified for inline screening by the FAA and TSA, the CTX9000 can process up to 540 bags per hour in Level 1 mode. The automated screening system decreases opportunities for human error, provides cost-savings by reducing staffing levels, and ensures an increased level of security without significantly impacting passenger flow.
"It is a testament to their vision and determination that JIA was named a TSA inline explosive detection screening pilot site from among so many competing world-class airports," said Don Anderson, FKI Logistex director of sales for airport systems. "We are proud that JIA selected FKI Logistex as its partner in this groundbreaking project."
All-RFID Baggage ID System
JIA will be the first airport worldwide to implement a 100% RFID baggage identification system that incorporates secure data encryption and read/write capabilities. The Baggage Handling Team will be integrating RFID technology from San Diego, CA-based SCS Corporation with FKI Logistex baggage handling equipment. The Ultra High Frequency (UHF)
RFID tags will be embedded in conventional airline baggage tags. Passenger information will be encoded onto the chip of the RFID tag by an RF-enabled bag-tag printer. Human-readable IATA license plate information will also be printed on the surface of the bag. Up to thirteen different carriers will use the technology for baggage tagging at both curbside and ticket counter check-in positions to facilitate the tracking of baggage throughout the outbound makeup process.
The all-RFID system will provide JIA with a precise, secure method for baggage tracking, identification, and reconciliation. Unlike traditional baggage tracking systems that have high misread rates, RFID-based systems have been achieving 98.8% read rates and allow for more efficient throughput. The simple tag antenna design allows for fast, accurate selective or multiple tag reads, with no line-of-sight required. The transponders enable the airport to view a complete history of each bag including where and when EDS testing has occurred, the result of the testing, departure and destination information, and any stops that occurred. With the RFID tag's rewritable and encryption technology, information can be added securely during the bag's journey, giving security personnel a clear snapshot of the route it has traveled.
"This all-RFID solution eliminates the need for slow, manual sorting and lifting while enhancing passenger security," said Paul Elizondo, SCS director of systems integration. "Having the RFID system in place will increase traveler safety and satisfaction while providing reliable baggage transfers and more on-time departures."
