Airport Passenger Screening Systems Market Report by Product (Passenger Screening, Carry-On Baggage Screening), Technology (Metal and Explosive Detection Systems, Advanced Imaging Systems), End-User (Civil Airports, Military Airports), and Region 2024-2032

The global airport passenger screening systems market size reached US$ 2.2 billion in 2023. The market is projected to reach US$ 4.8 billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 8.8% during 2023-2032. The steady rise in global air travel, constantly evolving nature of security threats, rapid expansion and modernization of airports in developed and emerging economies, ongoing global concerns regarding terrorism and acts of violence, and rigorous security mandates by governments and aviation regulatory bodies to counter evolving security threats are some of the major factors propelling the market.

Airport passenger screening systems refer to the comprehensive array of technologies and procedures employed at airports to ensure the safety and security of passengers, baggage, and airport personnel. These systems play a critical role in detecting and preventing the transport of prohibited items, such as weapons and explosives, onto commercial aircraft. Modern Airport Passenger Screening Systems encompass a combination of advanced technologies, including X-ray scanners, metal detectors, explosive trace detectors, and body scanners. These technologies are used to thoroughly inspect both passengers and their belongings. The screening process is designed to be efficient and non-intrusive, while maintaining the highest levels of security. Furthermore, these systems adhere to strict regulatory standards and guidelines set by international aviation authorities, such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). As a result, they contribute significantly to enhancing overall airport security, minimizing potential threats, and ensuring the safety of air travel for millions of passengers worldwide

The steady rise in global air travel has prompted airports to enhance their security infrastructure. As passenger volumes grow, the demand for efficient and effective screening systems to ensure safety has become paramount. Additionally, the constantly evolving nature of security threats requires continuous technological advancements. As new types of threats emerge, the need for sophisticated screening systems capable of detecting a wider range of prohibited items becomes essential. Other than this, while ensuring security remains paramount, airports are also aiming to streamline passenger processes. Advanced screening technologies like body scanners that maintain privacy while enhancing security contribute to a smoother passenger experience. Besides this, expanding and modernizing airports in both developed and emerging economies drives the adoption of advanced passenger screening systems. These systems are considered an integral part of infrastructure upgrades to support increased passenger flow. In line with this, ongoing global concerns regarding terrorism and acts of violence continue to underscore the need for effective screening measures. Airport Passenger Screening Systems are considered a frontline defense against potential security breaches. Furthermore, increased awareness among the general public regarding safety measures has led to higher expectations for robust security practices. Airports are under pressure to employ state-of-the-art screening solutions to instill confidence in travelers. Moreover, governments and aviation regulatory bodies around the world are imposing rigorous security mandates to counter evolving security threats. This compels airports to adopt advanced screening technologies to comply with these regulations and safeguard passengers.

Airport Passenger Screening Systems Market Trends/Drivers

Increase in Air Travel

With a rising number of passengers traversing airports worldwide, the need to ensure their safety while maintaining efficient operations has become paramount. The increasing demand for faster screening processes, combined with stringent security checks, has prompted airports to invest in advanced screening technologies. This not only helps in managing larger passenger volumes but also contributes to minimizing delays and enhancing the overall passenger experience.

Stringent Security Regulations

Governments and aviation regulatory bodies globally have established strict security regulations in response to evolving threats to aviation security. Compliance with these regulations is non-negotiable, compelling airports to adopt cutting-edge screening solutions. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and national aviation authorities lay down comprehensive security standards, mandating the deployment of state-of-the-art screening technologies. The need to prevent potential security breaches, combined with the risk of penalties for non-compliance, drives airports to invest in sophisticated screening systems to meet these regulatory requirements effectively.

Emergence of New Threats

Traditional screening methods may not effectively detect new types of threats, such as concealed non-metallic explosives or innovative smuggling techniques. As a result, the airport passenger screening systems witness continuous innovation to stay ahead of emerging threats. The demand for systems that can detect a wider range of prohibited items, including non-metallic and organic materials, has led to the development of advanced technologies like millimeter-wave body scanners and explosive trace detectors. This adaptability is crucial in maintaining the effectiveness of security measures against evolving threats.

Airport Passenger Screening Systems Industry Segmentation:

The report provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global airport passenger screening systems market report, along with forecasts at the global and regional levels for 2023-2032. The report has categorized the market based on product, technology, and end-user.

Breakup by Product:

• Passenger Screening
• Carry-On Baggage Screening

Carry-on baggage screening represents the most popular product

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the product. This includes passenger screening and carry-on baggage screening. According to the report, carry-on baggage screening represented the largest segment.

Passenger screening involves technologies and procedures designed to ensure the safety of individuals traveling through airports. This segment encompasses a range of advanced solutions such as body scanners, metal detectors, and full-body imaging systems. These technologies are employed to detect concealed prohibited items on passengers, including weapons, explosives, and other potential threats. Passenger screening technologies are continually evolving to strike a balance between effective security measures and passenger privacy, while adhering to stringent regulatory guidelines. The demand for accurate, efficient, and non-intrusive passenger screening systems remains high, driven by the need to provide robust security protocols while maintaining a seamless passenger experience.

Carry-on screening pertains to the examination of passengers' hand baggage and personal items. This comprises X-ray scanners, explosive trace detectors, and advanced imaging technologies. The primary objective of carry-on screening is to identify concealed dangerous items within passengers' belongings that could pose a threat to aviation safety. The technologies used in this segment focus on high-resolution imaging, material identification, and explosive detection. The increasing sophistication of smuggling techniques necessitates constant innovation in carry-on screening technologies to stay ahead of potential threats. This segment is crucial in preventing prohibited items from being brought onto aircraft and contributes significantly to maintaining the integrity of air travel security.

Breakup by Technology:

• Metal and Explosive Detection Systems
• Advanced Imaging Systems

Metal and explosive detection systems hold the largest share in the market

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on technology has also been provided in the report. This includes metal and explosive detection systems and advanced imaging systems. According to the report, metal and explosive detection systems accounted for the largest market share.

These systems are at the forefront of safeguarding air travel, as they provide reliable and efficient means to detect both metallic and non-metallic threats. The prevalence of metal-based weapons and explosive devices underscores the critical importance of these technologies in preventing potential acts of terrorism or violence on commercial aircraft. Metal and explosive detection systems encompass a range of technologies such as X-ray scanners, electromagnetic scanners, and trace detectors. Their prominence can be attributed to their versatility - they can be employed in both passenger and carry-on screening, ensuring comprehensive security coverage. Furthermore, the continuous evolution of these technologies, marked by advancements in detection accuracy, speed, and the ability to identify a broader range of materials, has solidified their dominant position in the market. Their proven track record in preventing security breaches and their central role in complying with international aviation regulations further contribute to their status as the largest segment in the Airport Passenger Screening Systems market.

Breakup by End-User:

• Civil Airports
• Military Airports

Civil airports dominate the market

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the end-user. This includes civil airports and military airports. According to the report, civil airports represented the largest segment.

Civil airports handle commercial flights, accommodating millions of passengers annually. The demand for advanced passenger screening technologies in civil airports is driven by the imperative to ensure the safety and security of a diverse and constantly growing number of travelers. Passenger screening systems, carry-on screening technologies, and other security measures are essential to meet stringent regulatory requirements and to instill confidence in travelers. The emphasis on maintaining an efficient and smooth passenger experience, alongside robust security measures, propels civil airports to continually invest in cutting-edge screening solutions.

Military airports are crucial for defense and national security purposes, accommodating military aircraft and personnel. The screening needs of military airports often extend beyond those of civil airports, encompassing specialized technologies tailored to military threats and requirements. While metal and explosive detection systems remain relevant, military airports might also prioritize technologies capable of identifying unconventional threats and detecting specific materials relevant to defense operations. The unique nature of military airport operations results in a niche demand for advanced screening systems that align with their specific security mandates.

Breakup by Region:

• North America
• Europe
• Asia-Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa

North America exhibits a clear dominance in the market

The report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, North America was the largest market.

North America’s extensive air travel network, encompassing numerous major international airports handling substantial passenger volumes. The heightened security concerns following incidents such as the September 11 attacks have led to stringent regulatory measures and increased investments in advanced screening technologies. Additionally, North America's commitment to technological innovation and substantial research and development activities in the field of aviation security have propelled the adoption of cutting-edge screening systems. The region's economic prosperity, coupled with a strong focus on maintaining a secure and efficient air travel environment, has fostered a robust demand for state-of-the-art screening solutions, positioning North America at the forefront of the global Airport Passenger Screening Systems market.

Competitive Landscape

Leading companies have heavily invested in research and development to introduce cutting-edge technologies that offer improved detection accuracy, faster throughput, and enhanced passenger experience. Collaboration with technology providers, academic institutions, and research centers has facilitated the integration of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics into screening systems, resulting in more sophisticated threat detection algorithms. Additionally, strategic partnerships with airports and aviation authorities have enabled key players to tailor their solutions to meet specific security requirements, ensuring seamless integration into existing airport operations. Moreover, the continuous refinement of screening technologies to address emerging threats, such as non-metallic explosives, has been a focal point for innovation.

Competitive Analysis

The market research report has provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the market. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the key players in the market include:

• Analogic Corporation
• CEIA S.p.A.
• Cobalt Light Systems
• Garrett Metal Detectors
• Ketech Systems Ltd.
• Kromek Group PLC
• L-3 Security & Detection Systems Inc.
• Morpho Detection Inc.
• Optosecurity Inc.
• Rapiscan System Ltd.
• Reveal Imaging Technologies Inc.
• Smiths Detection

Recent Developments:

In 2023, Analogic Corporation has developed an advanced airport passenger screening system called the ConneCT Checkpoint Security System that combines 50 years of CT imaging innovation with advanced threat detection software. The new ConneCT system is expected to improve aviation security and enhance the passenger experience. It also offers state-of-the-art technology to enhance the screening process at airports.

In 2023, CEIA USA introduced OPENGATE, a revolutionary new weapons detection system that quickly and automatically screens without the need to divest purses, backpacks and luggage.

Cobalt Light Systems, now a part of Agilent, is expanding its capabilities and expertise in the field of analytical instruments and technologies. The acquisition of Cobalt Light Systems further solidifies Agilent's position as a leading player in the industry, enabling them to offer a broader range of cutting-edge solutions to clients and stakeholders. This integration of resources and knowledge is poised to bring forth new opportunities for both companies, paving the way for continued growth and advancements in the realm of analytical technologies.

Key Questions Answered in This Report

1. What was the size of the global airport passenger screening systems market in 2023?
2. What is the expected growth rate of the global airport passenger screening systems market during 2024-2032?
3. What are the key factors driving the global airport passenger screening systems market?
4. What has been the impact of COVID-19 on the global airport passenger screening systems market?
5. What is the breakup of the global airport passenger screening systems market based on the product?
6. What is the breakup of the global airport passenger screening systems market based on the technology?
7. What is the breakup of the global airport passenger screening systems market based on the end-user?
8. What are the key regions in the global airport passenger screening systems market?
9. Who are the key players/companies in the global airport passenger screening systems market?