Gatwick’s Security Head on airport security challenges and innovation

c: J.Milstein

London Gatwick Airport is the world’s busiest single-runway airport, and second-busiest overall behind Heathrow Airport. The airport prioritises safety and security and is constantly evolving to meet emerging challenges and enhance the passenger experience. This commitment is driven by a forward-thinking approach that embraces technological advancements and fosters a strong security culture.

Addressing current security challenges

London Gatwick faces various security challenges, including the need to maintain high levels of efficiency while ensuring passenger safety. Dana highlights the airport’s success in this area, stating, “We have a very busy security at London Gatwick, and we work really hard to get circa 97% of customers through security in five minutes or less, and we’re really proud of this.” This commitment to efficiency is crucial for minimising passenger stress and ensuring smooth operations.

Another challenge involves addressing potential security breaches and ensuring passengers are well-informed about security procedures. Gatwick tackles this through proactive communication, utilising frequencies like their TikTok channel to “help customers prepare for security and myth-bust on items that you can and cannot take through security, which we know can be really confusing. We try to do this in a fun and engaging way.”

Gatwick is one among a growing number of airports looking to utilise channels such as TikTok to boost engagement among social media users.

Next generation security and technological innovation

Gatwick has completed its implementation of next generation security technologies, transforming the security process. Dana confirms that Gatwick is on-track to meet predicted timelines for implementing next gen security. By June 2024, Gatwick aimed to have made significant progress installing state-of-the-art security X-rays and scanners in both terminals. The remaining X-rays are planned to be installed by the end of Q1 2025, which would then be finalised after the busy summer period has concluded.

The implementation of these new X-rays bring significant benefits for passengers. Dana explains that “the security process will be completely transformed for customers as they no longer need to remove electrical items or put liquids in clear plastic bags.” This streamlines the security process, making it more convenient and less stressful for travellers. These new X-rays also provide high-quality images of cabin bags, further enhancing security.

Beyond next generation security, Gatwick is exploring other technological innovations to improve efficiency and the overall experience. According to Dana, Gatwick is “really open-minded about how technology can help make both our colleagues’ and our passengers’ lives easier.” One area of focus is simplifying the clear line process, with the airport “reviewing how technology can help us with that.”

Dana identifies next generation security as the technology that will have the biggest impact on airport security in the next two years. He believes that once fully implemented across the UK, it will be an exciting change for customers and colleagues.

The human element: fostering a positive security culture

While technology plays a vital role, Gatwick recognises the importance of its workforce in maintaining a robust security environment. Dana emphasises that, “we all have a part to play to ensure that we protect our airport.” To promote a positive security culture, Gatwick focuses on continuous improvement and learning, with a vision to be “the airport for everyone, whatever your journey.”

Recruiting and retaining talent

Attracting and retaining skilled security personnel is crucial for Gatwick. Dana acknowledges that it can be difficult to recruit in airport security. Gatwick addresses this by valuing a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects its people, communities and customers. The airport offers first-class training and skills development, along with a competitive package that includes an annual bonus, share scheme, pension and lifestyle insurance. Dana also highlights the opportunities for career progression and personal development at Gatwick.

Innovation and seamless security

Gatwick is constantly looking for ways to innovate and improve. Dana dismisses the idea that the industry has reached a ceiling in terms of security innovation. He noted that during his panel session at the International Airport Summit, the audience would hear about “how being really open-minded to continual change is going to help both colleagues and customers, because technology is also about helping colleagues and creating a great place to work.”

Dana offers an exciting glimpse into the future, suggesting that non-stop walk-through scanners will not be far off in the future: “I personally think we are no more than a couple of years away from that. We’re currently working quite closely with one of our suppliers around walk-through scanning. We’re just waiting for approval processes to be signed off through the ECAC process, and once we’re there, we will be trialling that sort of technology.”

c: LGW/Vinci Airports

Collaboration and industry advancement

Cyrus recognises the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing within the aviation industry. Dana mentioned that the International Airport Summit provided a valuable opportunity to hear about what technology is available, connect with others.

“It really gives you the time to slow down, open your mind and think about who you can connect with to help solve not only your own airport’s problems, but also those of the industry.” 

Gatwick’s commitment to security is unwavering. Through a combination of technological innovation, a strong security culture and a focus on collaboration, Gatwick strives to provide a safe, efficient and stress-free experience for all passengers. 

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