Video Analytics in Airports

Video Surveillance: Video Analytics in Airports

Airport security has been a pressing issue for many years now. Even before the modern “war on terrorism,” airport officials worried over hijacking attempts, bombs and drug smuggling. Airport security systems depend on a comprehensive integration of overlapping security products to maintain order and ensure the safety of passengers and employees. Although airports have used security products like CCTV cameras, security guards, metal detectors and other methods of access control for years, the introduction of video analytics technology is seen as a potential landmark in airport security history.

Security systems with analytics-enabled IP cameras are able to independently analyze footage for behavior patterns or movements of individuals within the camera's field of vision. Cameras enabled with video analytics can also be configured to recognize biometric traits like unique facial characteristics. Like traditional analog security camera systems, video analytics IP cameras would be set up in strategic parts of the airport like gates, security checkpoints, pick up and drop off points, check in counters and baggage claims. Feeds from these IP cameras would be transmitted back to a central control room where they would be monitored by security personnel. However, unlike analog cameras, video analytics cameras would not need constant monitoring. Instead, when suspicious behavior, whether it be shifting eyes, irregular gait or any other suspicious behaviors, the software attached to the analytics camera would alert a guard for attention to a particular incident. This is seen as a major step forward in video security - studies have shown that even the most diligent security guard only has an attention span of about 20 minutes when it comes to watching security camera feeds. An alert system means that less security guards would be needed to watch video camera footage, making them more available for other security duties like foot patrols.

Airports and airplanes are extremely sensitive environments and must have stringent security measures to maintain safety. Along with threats such as terrorism, smuggling and other crimes that happen in the passenger areas of airports, baggage and other handling problems can also bring large problems for airports. Security cameras enabled with video analytics technology can help keep “backstage” areas in airports secure.

Many airports, both in the US and abroad, are implementing video analytics systems in order to increase security and prevent attacks. Here are some examples of video analytics technology, systems, and their planned benefits to airports:

Researchers in Maryland have developed an algorithm for video analytics cameras that will help analyze human gait in order to determine whether they are carrying a weapon or explosive device. According to the conducted study, a normal, unencumbered gait (walking pattern) forms a "double helix" pattern over time. However, when a subject was carrying a package or additional weight, their walking pattern shifted noticeably. Engineers used the study results to develop an algorithm for a software program that could recognize suspicious gait patterns, which could alert security personnel when it notices a passenger carrying a concealed package tied to a wrist, ankle or torso. Read more at SecurityInfoWatch.com....

Officials at Schiphol airport in the Netherlands have announced plans to integrate a CCTV system with video analytics into their security system. Along with increased security, the advanced video analytics system will help in integrating rail and port security into existing airport security. Read more at Scotsman.com...

Video Surveillance: Video Analytics in Airports

Video Surveillance

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