Technology innovation sought for aviation security

The INSTINCT-Technology Demonstrator 2 (TD2) is a project designed to discover, trial and showcase emergent security technologies, solutions and ideas. These will be validated through trials and analysis conducted in a combination of live physical environments, including UK airports and synthetic environments. The two organisations are looking for technologies that could improve aviation security at any stage in the air travel process - from the point of planning and booking a trip, through to boarding an aircraft. Ideally this would improve, or at least not affect, passenger experience and/or airport revenues. Security Minister, Baroness Pauline Neville-Jones said: "The threat to our security is real and is evolving, and technology can play a key role in reducing that threat. This project shows how the Government is working with industry to find those innovative and emerging technologies." Charles Ward, chief operating officer of Intellect, added: "Intellect is delighted to be involved with this project and as the leading trade association for the UK technology sector we believe this opportunity will open the doors to companies of all sizes. Intellect's SME members play an important role in the industry as a source of new and innovative technology. This is an extremely fast moving environment where agility and creativity are also important. SMEs in the UK have proven consistently adept at finding pioneering solutions to constantly evolving requirements and play a vital role in the security ecosystem. It is important they are given the opportunity to trial and showcase their solutions." Thales is offering the chance to share in a cash prize of £50,000 and an opportunity to test its technology, solution or idea in a real environment. Further information can be found at www.intellectuk.org/INSTINCT-TD2, by emailing INSTINCT-TD2@uk.thalesgroup.com, or by registering (via the TD2 website) for the industry day to be held in Central London on 19 August. The closing date for submissions is 21 August 2010.