Airport Passenger Screening Systems Market Size

The global Airport Passenger Screening Systems Market size was valued at USD 2,174.9 million in 2023 and is projected to grow from USD 2,336.1 million in 2024 to USD 4,295.7 million by 2031, exhibiting a CAGR of 9.09% during the forecast period. The growth of the market is driven by increasing air travel, rising security concerns, regulatory mandates for advanced screening technologies, and ongoing investments in airport infrastructure.

In the scope of work, the report includes products and solutions offered by companies such as Agilent Technologies, Inc., Analogic Corporation, Kromek Group plc, L3Harris Technologies, Inc., Leidos, Nuctech, OSI Systems, Inc., Smiths Detection Group Ltd., Vanderlande Industries B.V., C.E.I.A. S.p.A., and others.

The expansion of the airport passenger screening systems market is mainly propelled by increased global security concerns and the rising need for efficient and effective passenger screening solutions. Increasing air travel, coupled with stringent government regulations, demands advanced technologies to ensure safety and facilitate smooth operations.

Boeing Commercial Airplanes Current Market Outlook forecasts a 69.23% increase in air traffic by 2042.

Technological advancements, such as biometric authentication and AI-based screening, enhance detection capabilities and expedite the screening process. Additionally, the increasing frequency of smuggling activities and security threats necessitates robust screening systems. Increased iInvestments in airport infrastructure and modernization projects further boost market growth.

The market encompasses various technologies and equipment used to screen passengers and their luggage at airports. North America dominates the market due to high-security standards and frequent technological upgrades. Asia-Pacific is experiencing rapid growth due to increasing air traffic and airport expansion projects.

Market players are actively prioritizing innovation to provide more accurate, faster, and less intrusive screening methods. The market is highly competitive, with key players focusing on mergers and partnerships to expand their product portfolios and global presence.

The airport passenger screening systems refers to the array of technological solutions and devices employed to inspect passengers and their baggage at airport security checkpoints. These systems are designed to detect prohibited items, contraband, and potential threats, thereby ensuring the safety and security of air travel.

The market includes hardware components such as X-ray machines, body scanners, and metal detectors, as well as software solutions for data analysis and threat detection. This market segment is critical for maintaining airport security protocols and facilitating the smooth flow of passengers through security checkpoints. It plays an essential role in balancing security needs with passenger convenience and operational efficiency.

Analyst’s Review

Manufacturers in the airport passenger screening systems market are focusing on innovations to enhance both security and efficiency. This includes the development of advanced imaging technologies and AI-driven threat detection systems. New products, such as millimeter-wave scanners and automated screening lanes, among others, are significantly improving passenger throughput and improving the accuracy of threat detection.

For Instance, in April 2024, Smiths Detection launched an advanced X-ray scanner (SDX 10060 XDi) that utilized diffraction technology. This technology provided precise material discrimination and identification based on molecular structure, making it highly effective for detecting evolving compounds, including narcotics and homemade explosives. The device automates the resolution of explosive alarms, thereby enhancing both security and efficiency in baggage handling operations and assisting customs agencies in the screening of contraband items.

Additionally, manufacturers are focusing on integrating biometric technologies to streamline passenger identification processes. Market players are advised to persist in their investment in R&D to remain at the forefront of technological advancements, while also collaborating with regulatory bodies to ensure compliance. Additionally, expanding product offerings to include contactless and automated solutions is likely to be crucial in meeting evolving security and passenger convenience needs.

Airport Passenger Screening Systems Market Growth Factors

The continuous advancements in screening technology is influencing the landscape of the market. These innovations are enhancing detection capabilities and reducing false alarms, ensuring a smoother and more efficient screening process. Advanced imaging technologies, such as millimeter-wave scanners and 3D computed tomography (CT) scanners, are providing clearer and more detailed images.

This allows security personnel to identify potential threats more accurately and quickly. Additionally, the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms is improving the analysis of screening data, thereby further increasing efficiency. As these technologies evolve, they are significantly enhancing the overall security and operational efficiency of airports.

Balancing security with passenger convenience presents a key challenge to market expansion. Lengthy screening processes often lead to long wait times and increased passenger dissatisfaction. To overcome this challenge, the implementation of advanced screening technologies is essential. Solutions such as automated screening lanes and biometric authentication systems are increasingly being deployed.

These technologies expedite the screening process by reducing manual checks and enhancing throughput. Furthermore, continuous training for security personnel on the latest technologies and threat detection techniques is crucial. By adopting these strategies, airports are working to maintain high security standards while minimizing inconvenience for passengers.

Airport Passenger Screening Systems Market Trends

The increasing adoption of biometric technologies is a key factor reshaping the landscape of the airport passenger screening systems market. Airports are increasingly implementing biometric systems, such as facial recognition and fingerprint scanning, to streamline the screening process. These technologies enhance security by providing accurate and quick identification of passengers.

They further improve the overall passenger experience by reducing wait times and minimizing physical contact. Biometric systems are being integrated into existing security infrastructure, resulting in seamless and efficient operations. This trend is gaining traction globally as airports strive to balance stringent security requirements with the need for efficient and passenger-friendly screening procedures.

The growing shift toward touchless and automated screening solutions is another prominent trend in the market. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, airports are prioritizing the implementation of contactless technologies to enhance passenger safety and maintain hygiene. Automated screening lanes, advanced imaging systems, and artificial intelligence-driven threat detection are increasingly becoming standard practices.

These innovations reduce the need for physical interactions and enhance the efficiency of the screening process. Airports are investing heavily in these technologies to meet current health and safety standards while also effectively future-proofing their operations against similar challenges.

Segmentation Analysis

The global market is segmented based on product, technology, application, and geography.

By Product

Based on product, the market is categorized into passenger screening and carry-on baggage screening. The passenger screening segment led the airport passenger screening systems market in 2023, reaching a valuation of USD 1,205.9 million. Increasing passenger traffic and rising security concerns are leading to surging demand for efficient and reliable screening systems. Advanced technologies, such as biometric recognition and AI-enhanced screening, are improving accuracy and speed, thereby enhancing passenger throughput and experience.

Regulatory mandates for stringent security protocols are compelling airports to upgrade their screening infrastructure. Furthermore, continuous investments in airport modernization and the expansion of airport facilities are bolstering the adoption of sophisticated passenger screening systems, thereby aiding segmental expansion.

By Technology

Based on technology, the market is classified into X-ray systems, metal detectors, body scanners, explosive trace detectors, and advanced imaging technologies. The advanced imaging technologies segment is set to experience significant growth at a robust CAGR of 11.33% through the forecast period (2024-2031). Advanced imaging systems, such as millimeter-wave scanners and 3D computed tomography (CT) scanners, offer superior detection capabilities and enhance security by providing detailed images of potential threats.

These technologies reduce false alarms and increase operational efficiency, making them highly attractive to airport authorities. The growing emphasis on non-invasive and less intrusive screening methods is boosting the adoption of these technologies. Continuous innovation and integration with AI for improved threat analysis further support the expansion of the segment.

By Airport Type

Based on airport type, the market is segmented into civil airports and military airports. The civil airports segment secured the largest airport passenger screening systems market share of 85.62% in 2023. The rising number of air travelers and the expansion of commercial flight operations are significantly increasing the demand for advanced screening systems at civil airports.

Investments in upgrading airport infrastructure and enhancing security measures are resulting in the widespread adoption of sophisticated screening technologies. Regulatory requirements for stringent security protocols at civil airports are further contributing to this growth. Moreover, the focus on improving passenger experience and reducing wait times is prompting airports to implement more efficient and advanced screening systems, thereby stimulating the growth of the civil airports segment.

Airport Passenger Screening Systems Market Regional Analysis

Based on region, the global market is classified into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, MEA, and Latin America.

Airport Passenger Screening Systems Market Size & Share, By Region, 2024-2031

North America airport passenger screening systems market share stood around 34.48% in 2023 in the global market, with a valuation of USD 749.8 million. The region's stringent regulatory standards and increased security concerns necessitate the implementation of advanced screening technologies. Frequent technological upgrades and significant investments in airport infrastructure are bolstering regional market expansion.

The presence of major market players and continuous innovation in screening technologies contribute to the region's dominance. Additionally, the high volume of air traffic, particularly in the United States, fuels the demand for efficient and reliable screening systems. North America's focus on enhancing both security and passenger convenience is expected to drive sustained growth.

Asia-Pacific is poised to experience substantial growth at a robust CAGR of 10.72% through the projection period. Rapid urbanization and economic growth are leading to an increase in air travel across the region. Governments and airport authorities are heavily investing in airport infrastructure and modernization projects to accommodate the rising passenger traffic. As security concerns grow, the widespread adoption of advanced screening technologies is accelerating.

Additionally, international collaborations and partnerships are facilitating the introduction of innovative screening solutions. The region's focus on improving operational efficiency and enhancing passenger experience is further propelling the Asia-Pacific market.

Competitive Landscape

The airport passenger screening systems market report will provide valuable insight with an emphasis on the fragmented nature of the industry. Prominent players are focusing on several key business strategies such as partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, product innovations, and joint ventures to expand their product portfolio and increase their market shares across different regions.

Manufacturers are adopting a range of strategic initiatives, including investments in R&D activities, the establishment of new manufacturing facilities, and supply chain optimization, to strengthen their market standing.

List of Key Companies in Airport Passenger Screening Systems Market

Agilent Technologies, Inc.
Analogic Corporation
Kromek Group plc
L3Harris Technologies, Inc.
Leidos
Nuctech
OSI Systems, Inc.
Smiths Detection Group Ltd.
Vanderlande Industries B.V.
E.I.A. S.p.A.

Key Industry Developments

July 2024 (Partnership): Smiths Detection partnered with Flughafen Zürich AG for the trial of the iLane A20SC automatic tray return system and the carry-on baggage X-ray scanners (HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX) at Zurich Airport. The trial aimed to enhance convenience for passengers by allowing them to leave liquids and electronics in their carry-on luggage during security screening.
March 2024 (Partnership): L3Harris Technologies opened a new facility in Italy, marking a significant step in its European expansion focused on enhancing collaboration and innovation. The company supported the Italian Joint Intelligence Center and Air Force by integrating the Joint Airborne Multi-Mission Multi-Sensor System program.

The global airport passenger screening systems market is segmented as:

By Product

Passenger Screening
Carry-On Baggage Screening

By Technology

X-Ray Systems
Metal Detectors
Body Scanners
Explosive Trace Detectors
Advanced Imaging Technologies

By Airport Type

Civil Airports
Military Airports

By Region

North America
- U.S.
- Canada
- Mexico
Europe
- France
- U.K.
- Spain
- Germany
- Italy
- Russia
- Rest of Europe
Asia-Pacific
- China
- Japan
- India
- South Korea
- Rest of Asia-Pacific
Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- North Africa
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
Latin America
- Brazil
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America