Last weekend Adelaide Airport kicked off a significant upgrade to its security screening process, promising a smoother, more efficient experience for travellers. The overhaul will eventually see the introduction of advanced body scanners and 3D x-ray bag scanners across all security lanes, with completion expected by late 2025.
Once fully implemented, passengers will no longer need to remove laptops, tablets, or aerosols from their carry-on luggage, addressing one of the most common frustrations of airport security checks. Currently, a mix of screening equipment is in place, which has the potential to confuse passengers unsure of the exact requirements.
Dermot O’Neill, Executive General Manager People, Culture and Customer, acknowledged that the current inconsistency in screening equipment hasn’t been ideal, causing inefficiencies for both customers and security teams.
“Rolling out the body scanners and 3D x-ray scanners will make things easier both for travellers and for our security teams,” O’Neill said.
“[It] will create a more seamless process for our customers, enhance safety and provide a connected experience through uniform screening procedures across major Australian airports.”
Improved efficiency and enhanced safety
The technology behind the upgrade is impressive. The 3D x-ray scanner, using computed tomography (CT), provides a significantly enhanced view of items being screened, allowing for more accurate and efficient checks. The equipment also includes an automated tray return system, reducing the manual handling of trays and further speeding up the screening process. This modernisation is expected to deliver quicker screening times and a more efficient journey for every passenger.
Currently, Adelaide Airport has two body scanners and one 3D x-ray scanner at its central checkpoint. Other lanes still use older technology, including walk-through metal detectors and 2D bag scanners. With the upgrade, all security lanes will be brought up to the same high standard, providing consistency across the board.
Interestingly, the number of security lanes will be reduced from seven to six, as the new technology is expected to allow for quicker processing. However, Adelaide Airport is preparing for future growth, with the capacity to add back a seventh lane if needed.
How Adelaide Airport plans to minimise disruption
While the long-term goal is to make the security process faster and simpler, there may be some temporary disruption during the construction phase. From last weekend, the right-hand security lane will be relocated to a temporary position near the Virgin check-in area. Adelaide Airport has assured travellers that every effort will be made to minimise any inconvenience.
“We will do all we can to minimise disruption to customers during construction, but there may be times when there is some minor impact to screening,” O’Neill said.
“We will provide as much notice as we can to customers should there be particular times and dates when we anticipate screening may take a bit longer than usual.”
Checked baggage screening improvements
It’s not just carry-on security that’s getting an upgrade. Adelaide Airport is also making improvements to its checked baggage screening system. The terminal’s main baggage handling system will see new security screening technology integrated, further enhancing the airport’s ability to provide a secure and efficient service for travellers.
What does this mean for you?
This security upgrade aligns Adelaide Airport with other major Australian airports, many of which have already adopted similar technology. O’Neill emphasised that the uniformity of the screening process across airports would provide a smoother experience for travellers, whether they’re frequent flyers or occasional tourists.
In the long run, the introduction of this cutting-edge technology is set to boost both security and passenger satisfaction. Travellers can expect shorter queues, quicker screenings, and fewer hassles—all while ensuring the highest levels of safety are maintained.
As construction progresses, the airport will continue to keep passengers informed, and travellers can look forward to a significantly improved experience by the time the project wraps up in 2025. Until then, the Adelaide Airport team remains committed to ensuring that any disruptions are kept to a minimum.
Adelaide Airport is set to undergo a significant $1 billion transformation, which will enhance passenger experience with upgraded terminals, improved transport links, and expanded facilities.
