Amsterdam Airport Schiphol tests the use of AI to speed up baggage screening

Safety and speed are the top priority

In March, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol announced they would be teaming up with Pangiam to trial a new way of screening hand baggage - powered by artificial intelligence (AI). The new technology applies algorithmic analysis to images of hand luggage, helping to identify prohibited items and potential security risks more efficiently.

Schiphol plans to trial this technology on a small scale, applying it to existing hardware and software in the security process. If the system meets all European regulations and proves effective, then the technology will be developed and rolled out at scale. If successful, the technology may help support airport employees and speed up the process for travellers.

Philip van Noort, Director of Security at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, says:

“We are fully committed to recruiting security colleagues and have been increasing the productivity of our security equipment recently, of course without compromising on the quality of security. In the future, this collaboration can contribute to more comfort for travellers thanks to secure and faster hand baggage screening.”

Amsterdam, a city of industry innovation

This announcement makes Schiphol the first major European airport to participate in Project DARTMOUTH. This collaboration between Pangiam and Google Cloud aims to bring innovative AI-assisted security tools to the aerospace industry.

Of the airport’s participation, Head of Project DARTMOUTH at Pangiam Alexis Long says:

“Royal Schiphol Group has an international reputation for innovation and excellence in technology. This collaboration allows us to bring the benefits of artificial intelligence to the security checkpoint and improve the process.”

Amsterdam is a consistent top performer when it comes to industry innovation, from setting the standard for the ethical use of AI to ranking 5th on the most recent GII Index. With an open business environment and proactive approach towards a future focused economy, the city is a hotbed for new ideas to take flight.

Learn more about Amsterdam’s thriving AI industry.