Lyon Airport facilitates passenger security checks

Since January 16, 2023, and for six months, Lyon-Saint-Exupéry Airport has been testing state-of-the-art security equipment that automatically detects explosives in carry-on luggage. Two security screening lines are equipped with this new technology, prioritized for Premium passengers. Beyond enhancing security through the automatic detection of explosives in every bag, the new equipment being tested facilitates the security check process by eliminating the need for travelers to remove electronic devices and liquids/gels/aerosols from their carry-on luggage. Eventually, if widely adopted, this system could also eliminate the current restrictions on the quantities of liquids, gels, and aerosols allowed (currently 100ml).

This experiment is part of a partnership between VINCI Airports teams and the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) under the national innovation program “Vision Sûreté 2,” initiated by the DGAC. The program aims to enhance the effectiveness of aviation security systems, particularly passenger and carry-on baggage screening, while improving the efficiency of passenger flows.

By bringing together various stakeholders (airport operator, DGAC, security service provider, and equipment manufacturer), this experiment will evaluate this new security equipment in a real-world setting and contribute to advancing the deployment of such systems in France.

Similar technologies are being deployed by VINCI Airports at its airports in the UK and Portugal, where liquid detection lines are also being tested. Through its three innovation centers of excellence, located at the airports of Lyon, Gatwick, and Lisbon, the group continuously works to improve passenger experience through the use of innovative technologies while ensuring the highest safety and security standards at its airports.

Ludovic Gas, Director of Operations at Lyon Airports, stated: "The VINCI Airports teams at Lyon Airport are working alongside state services to implement innovative solutions that streamline our passengers' journey while ensuring the reliability of security checks."

About Vision Sûreté :

The objective of this program, led by the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC), is to promote innovation in security in response to evolving threats. The program aims to drive this innovation approach with all aviation security stakeholders. Through this program, the DGAC seeks to simultaneously improve the level of security and service quality while preserving the competitiveness of national operators through cost control. Operational experiments allow for the testing of new detection technologies against operational realities, evolving various technologies and procedures, and issuing national and European recommendations. For more information: Vision Sûreté @DGAC DGAC LinkedIn

About Lyon Airport :

Lyon Airport manages the operations of Lyon–Saint Exupéry for commercial aviation and Lyon–Bron, the third-largest business aviation airport in France. As the leading airport in the VINCI Airports network in France, with nearly 9 million passengers in 2022, Lyon-Saint Exupéry offers 120 direct destinations in 2023 and connects to major international hubs. It is linked to the city center in 30 minutes by the Rhônexpress tram-train. Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport, a center of excellence for innovation at VINCI Airports, offers modern infrastructure and an innovation strategy focused on a quality passenger experience and operational excellence for airlines. Certified ACA Level 4+, ISO 14001, and ISO 50001, Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport is developing with complete control of its environmental impact. www.lyonaeroports.com

About VINCI Airports :

The world's leading private airport operator, VINCI Airports manages more than 65 airports in 12 countries in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. With its expertise as a global integrator, VINCI Airports develops, finances, builds, and operates airports, bringing its investment capacity and expertise in optimizing operational performance, modernizing infrastructure, and driving their environmental transition. VINCI Airports was the first airport operator to commit to an international environmental strategy in 2016, aiming for net-zero emissions across its network by 2050.