New State-of-the-Art Explosive Detection System to be Installed at Honolulu International Airport
08/26/10 - The DOT and the Transportation Security Administration broke ground today for a new state-of-the-art Explosive Detection System (EDS) to be installed at Honolulu International Airport. The work is part of the Honolulu International Airport EDS Integration Improvements Project, which will install 16 TSA-provided in-line explosive detection machines in Lobbies 4, 5, 7, and 8 of the Overseas Terminal.
HONOLULU — The state Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) broke ground today for a new state-of-the-art Explosive Detection System (EDS) that will be installed at Honolulu International Airport.
The work is part of the Honolulu International Airport EDS Integration Improvements Project, which will install 16 TSA-provided in-line explosive detection machines in Lobbies 4, 5, 7, and 8 of the Overseas Terminal. The new EDS machines are equipped with the most current security system providing fully-integrated, enhanced baggage screening matrices capable of detecting explosives, weapons, and other contraband materials to provide a safe environment for travelers.
Additional work will include the construction and installation of new baggage handling systems, extensive improvements to modernize the existing ticket lobbies, and four cutting-edge explosive trace detection rooms. Once the project is completed, the passenger baggage check-in procedure will be seamless and simple. Baggage will enter the security screening area on conveyor belts from the check-in counters and will no longer require passengers to carry their bags to the EDS machines, thus improving the overall airport experience.
“As part of our statewide $2.3 billion Airports Modernization Plan, the EDS project will provide many benefits such as improving air travel security, opening up lobby space at our airport, and helping to simplify the flight check-in process for our air travelers,” said DOT Director Brennon Morioka. “This provides a very positive impression of our state that travelers receive when they visit our airports.”
The construction and integration of the system will be completed by general contractor Nan, Inc. The approximate cost of the project is $61 million, which is partially funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The estimated completion date is early 2013. Construction work will be coordinated to minimize the impacts on airline operations and air travelers.
Pictured left to right are Brian Bowers, President, Bowers + Kubota Consulting; James Pratt, DOT District Manager, Honolulu International Airport; Stanford Miyamoto, Assistant Area Director, Transportation Security Administration; Sam Ho, Vice President, Nan, Inc.; Frank Okimoto, Vice President, Nan, Inc.; Brennon Morioka, Director, State Department of Transportation; and Kahu Kordell Kekoa, Chaplain, Kamehameha Schools.
