An EG Guide To: Next Generation Airport Security

Our ORAT service: A Snapshot 

Airports need to upgrade their security equipment to maintain efficiency, compliance, and smooth operations. EG helps airports achieve this by focusing on people and collaboration to achieve a seamless transition. Recently, we successfully implemented a six-lane installation ensuring the new equipment was installed on-time and worked from day one.

Successful transformation of an airport security checkpoint is all about people, which is why our services starts, and ends, with just that. We empower you and your teams to navigate the path to where you need to be tomorrow, driving meaningful change and operational success.

How can airports ensure they are maximizing their available space while maintaining compliance and efficiency? What strategies can you use to facilitate necessary upgrades without jeopardizing checkpoint throughput and project deadlines? These are some of the questions we’re here to answer. In other words: We’re here to help you come to your own decisions about how – and when – to make changes to your security checkpoints. And then we help you carry them out. Because this isn't just about resolving issues—it's about future-proofing your operation, preventing reputational damage, and delivering an exceptional customer experience.

What we can do

At EG, we see ORAT as more than just a series of steps; to us, it’s also about the Transformation journey. About building strong, cross-functional teams within your organisation and with your suppliers. About making connections, listening to problems, and creating a clear, seamless pathway forward. It’s a holistic approach designed to keep every part of the project connected, thereby ensuring a seamless transformation of your checkpoints.  

And we don’t just plan for today—we plan for tomorrow. By thinking with the future in mind, we ensure that investments made today continue to generate value well into the future. Every decision is rooted in a vision for the long-term success of your airport.

How we do it

Our ORAT methodology provides a structured and cohesive framework that brings new security operations to life. Our approach is comprised of four steps, from understand and design, to get ready and operate. Our approach ensures that every aspect, from communication styles to project planning, is seamlessly integrated. We collaborate closely with a large team of stakeholders, working from a single, meticulously designed plan that guides the project. This comprehensive programme enables us to move from conceptualisation to execution with confidence, ensuring that the new space and equipment are fully operational and aligned with our clients' strategic objectives. 

Recently, we partnered with a client upgrading their security checkpoint to next-generation screening technology. From the outset, we worked closely with them to understand their needs, shape the plan, and bring their vision to life. The project culminated in the successful introduction of a six-lane screening operation in a newly designed facility. This involved co-ordinating many stakeholders including manufacturers, regulators, and over 250 staff. We also helped the client optimise the facility, ensuring it performed at peak efficiency. 

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Tap below for more information on how our approach to ORAT can help you in the following areas: 

• Efficiency   

• Service Levels   

• Compliance   

• People Readiness

AIRPORT CHALLENGES, SPECIFIC PAIN POINTS, AND OUR ANSWERING EXPERTISE

Efficiency Challenges  

Following last year’s recruitment drive to bolster the workforce, it’s now crucial to focus on becoming more efficient. Many airports are still grappling with how to effectively manage their security operations, particularly as the new checkpoint systems require teams to adopt new ways of working and optimized manning configurations. These challenges highlight the need for a robust Operating Model that aligns with the evolving requirements of airport security. 

Our ORAT (Operational Readiness and Transformation) service addresses these key challenges. Within this framework, we design a comprehensive CONOPS (Concept of Operations), detailing how the future checkpoint will function. Our services include capturing and documenting the standard operating procedures for both screening and support activities, as well as developing tailored lane manning configuration options that ensure the checkpoint operates at peak efficiency. 

Service Levels   

Achieving consistent reductions in queue times without escalating costs is a critical challenge for airports. Many are faced with the issue of merging data management and performance insights tools, which remain underdeveloped. To address this, we offer a solution through the development of a Line of Sight—a comprehensive approach that includes designing management information systems capable of consolidating data from various equipment into a unified performance view. This system also enables the creation of predictive models to optimize operations. 

Our Data Management service supports this by mapping data networks and systems architecture to establish single-point data access. Additionally, we design cross-terminal operational management dashboards, as well as resource management dashboards that gather and present actionable information to enhance team performance. 

Compliance Challenges   

Implementing new technology to drive a step change in compliance can be challenging, especially as OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) are struggling to keep up with demand. To overcome this, we offer a comprehensive Project Management Office (PMO) solution that manages the entire process—from contracting and detailed design to logistics, delivery, installation, and commissioning. 

Our Vendor Selection service is designed to simplify this process. With deep knowledge of all OEMs in the market supplying advanced checkpoint technology, we help you ask the right questions during the tender process, ensuring that suppliers are evaluated based on your specific needs. Additionally, we interpret supplier responses, providing clear insights to help you select the best vendor for your operation. 

People Readiness Challenges   

Adapting your operating model to new ways of working while bringing your staff along on the journey is essential for a smooth transition. Our Training and Coaching service is designed to support this transformation by developing tailored training programmes for both new and existing staff. We provide hands-on coaching for security officers, ensuring they are fully equipped to adopt new working methods. During the early stages, we offer 'hyper care' in-lane coaching to ensure optimal lane performance is achieved. 

With new lanes set to open during the peak summer period, airports face a time-sensitive challenge. To address this, we offer Performance and Development Review (PDR) support, guiding the management and operation of checkpoints during the critical first 100 days. This transition management ensures that your team hits the ground running and maintains high performance from day one. 

To find out more please get in touch / +44 (0) 20 7298 7878