According to The Telegraph, it could help prevent terrorist attacks like the recent incident at Glasgow airport by creating a ‘virtual tripwire’ around terminals.
Combining CCTV with intelligent software it should be possible to quickly detect an unattended bag or unauthorised vehicle on a runway, before alerting security staff.
In February, info4security reported on the installation of video analytics at Amsterdam’s Schiphol airport. There, 17 cameras cover designated off-limits areas and whenever a vehicle or person crosses into them, an alarm is automatically raised.
Luton airport already makes use of an networked CCTV system, which would make it easy to integrate the intelligent software. However, other airports still operating traditional systems may have a more difficult job.
IndigoVision’s CEO Dr Oliver Vellacott explained the problem after their involvement in the project at Schipol.
“It is not possible to implement such a system using traditional analogue video systems, because of the distances involved and the need to use real time analytics,” he said.
While the algorithms are becoming more effective, it is thought the technology will be best used at airports when combined with physical security.
Bollards can make it physically impossible to drive into an airport and BAA is said to be reconfiguring its forecourts to prevent vehicles getting near to buildings at all.
Video analytics will also be tested by the rail industry at Clapham Junction, one of the country’s busiest transport intersections.
