Lorraine Williamson
Passengers travelling through Spain’s three busiest airports will soon experience faster security checks. Aena has begun installing advanced security scanners at Madrid-Barajas, Barcelona-El Prat, and Palma de Mallorca airports.
The new system allows liquids and electronic devices to remain in hand luggage during screening, streamlining the process.
How the new scanners work
The scanners use computed tomography (CT) to analyse baggage contents in detail. This technology enables passengers to pass through security without removing liquids or electronics. The aim is to reduce waiting times, improve efficiency, and enhance security. If implementation stays on schedule, the system will be operational by summer.
Rollout at Spain’s busiest airports
Madrid-Barajas, Barcelona-El Prat, and Palma de Mallorca are the first to receive the new scanners. In 2023, these airports handled over 60 million, 41 million, and 31 million passengers, respectively. With high passenger volumes, the new system is expected to ease congestion and speed up security checks.
Benefits for travellers
The biggest advantage is convenience. Passengers no longer need to remove liquids or electronic devices at security checkpoints. This change reduces delays caused by manual baggage inspections and repacking. Additionally, the technology provides a more detailed analysis of baggage contents, improving overall security without disrupting passenger flow.
Future expansion
Aena plans to extend the installation of CT scanners to other Spanish airports in the coming years. This initiative is part of a €1.17 billion investment in airport modernisation. Spain’s adoption of this technology follows similar measures at major European airports, including London Heathrow.
By upgrading security procedures, Spain aims to enhance efficiency while maintaining high safety standards, making travel smoother for millions of passengers each year.
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