Airlines welcome UK backing for smart airport technology
March 20, 2025
Airlines and airports have welcomed the UK government’s latest investment in smart airport technology, aimed at improving security and reducing delays for passengers.
The Department for Transport (DfT) announced that six British tech companies will receive a share of £450,000 to develop cutting-edge screening equipment.
The technology is designed to enhance threat detection, minimise false alarms, and speed up the screening process, reducing inconvenience for travellers. Companies from Tewkesbury, Cambridge, and Nottingham are among the recipients.
Alongside the funding, businesses will receive tailored support through workshops led by experts from the Connected Places Catapult, offering guidance on technical development, corporate finance, regulation, and customer needs.
In response to the announcement, Tim Alderslade, CEO of Airlines UK, and Karen Dee, CEO of AirportsUK, expressed their support for the government’s commitment to improving airport operations.
“Reform to the UK’s airspace will reduce delays for passengers and cargo, improve resilience and help aviation achieve net zero. This is a major priority for airlines and airports and we strongly support these reforms in particular the commitment to consult on changes to the airspace design process.
“This consultation must result in a quicker and more proportionate system so we can deliver the overall programme as quickly as possible and ideally before the end of the decade.”
Aviation Minister, Mike Kane, said: “Safety is our top priority and this funding will strengthen the UK’s already rigorous security standards, bolster our competitiveness internationally and ensure that passengers can continue to fly with ease of mind.
“As part of our Plan for Change, we are turbocharging investment in the aviation sector and going further and faster with expansion plans to kickstart economic growth and deliver high-skilled jobs across the country.”
