Software to give ‘clear view’ of airport security

Chennai airport, among the eight high-profile airports in the country in terms of scope for security threat, could soon see closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras installed along its perimeter as part of a modern security management system.

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is in talks with US-based Raytheon for its software-based Clear View system at several airports in the country, including Chennai.

The Clear View system of Raytheon, which installed the air traffic automation system at Chennai, is in use at several US airports and defence establishments to automatically detect, assess and warn about threats and impending incidents.

"The system can take inputs from existing cameras and sensors to assess threats. Data can be integrated from multiple existing systems to create a common operating picture. Users can change the workflow and security procedures without changing the core system software. It can be configured to suit existing and future needs," said Robert Meyer, in-charge of business development, Air Traffic Management at Network Centric System, Raytheon.

Raytheon has started ground work to ensure the system will be foolproof. "A site survey is being done at the airport to assess the existing system and to find out ways to install a modern one," said Saranjit Aujla, director, business development, Network Centric Systems, Raytheon.

The AAI and the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security have shown interest in the system. "We'll be giving a demo of the system to senior BCAS officials in a couple of months," said Aujla.

There is a "comprehensive plan to install CCTV cameras on the operational area, city side and along the perimeter. The camera surveillance of terminal buildings have been upgraded and converted into live monitoring recently," said airport director E P Hareendranathan.

A recent attempt to smuggle ephedrine - an off-duty contract worker sneaked it inside using the bonnet of a tractor - brought to light lapses in the security procedures followed at the airport. "Unnecessary movements of workers and vehicles can be monitored by a modern security system," said a senior AAI official.

Currently, the airport's perimeter is monitored in the traditional way - by armed Central Industrial Security Force guards in watch towers at various points on the campus.