Deployment of EQO Body Scanner at Tribhuvan International Airport for Enhanced Passenger Security

1. Project Overview

The EQO Body Scanner installation at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Kathmandu, was implemented by Mahavir Shree International Pvt. Ltd. (MSIPL) to address the pressing need for efficient, safe, and modernized security screening at Nepal’s primary international aviation hub. As a highly congested airport with limited physical infrastructure and staffing constraints, TIA faced challenges in managing growing passenger traffic while maintaining stringent security protocols.

The project focused on integrating the EQO body scanner system developed by Smiths Detection—a global leader in threat detection technologies. This system enables automatic detection of various materials (metals, ceramics, plastics, liquids) with full privacy compliance and reduced reliance on manual checks. Installed at the arrival security check-in area, the scanners are connected to remote and local operator stations, facilitating image-based communication via VOIP headsets to pinpoint suspicious items discreetly.

One of the primary challenges during the installation was space limitations and the absence of trained personnel for both technical operations and civil work. MSIPL’s team had to manage on-site modifications such as metal fabrication, carpentry for partitioning male and female scanning areas, and secure power cable layouts. These efforts ensured the integration of the scanners into an infrastructure not originally designed to support such technology.

The project addresses public discomfort with manual body checks by automating the scanning process. It not only streamlines passenger flow and reduces wait times but also enhances the ability of security personnel to detect and act on potential threats efficiently. Furthermore, this installation signifies a move toward modernized airport infrastructure that aligns with global standards.

Moving forward, the report highlights the need for regular training of customs personnel, scheduled maintenance of the equipment, and infrastructure upgrades to fully leverage the benefits of the EQO system. This initiative is a critical step toward strengthening national security, ensuring safer air travel, and positioning Nepal’s airports to handle increasing passenger volumes with modern technologies.

2. Project Details

Client:

Not Specified

Location:

Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Nepal

Completion Date:

Not Specified

Project Duration:

Not Specified

Industry:

Aviation Security / Transportation

3. Technical Implementation – System Components Setup

The EQO body scanner operates using microwave illumination at 24.16 GHz within the Super High Frequency (SHF) band. This frequency, with a wavelength of approximately 13 mm, allows penetration through clothing while reflecting off the human body due to its high water content—enabling precise detection of concealed items.

Two scanners were installed at TIA's arrival security check-in area. The setup involved both a local station and a remote station. The remote operator can view scanned images and communicate with the local operator via VOIP headsets. Infrastructure adjustments included aluminum partitioning for gender-specific scanning, civil works for fitting equipment, and safe routing of power cables.

4. Performance and Capabilities

Detection Type: Automatic, privacy-compliant threat detection

Materials Detected: Metals, ceramics, plastics, liquids

Bandwidth/Frequency: 24.16 GHz (SHF band, millimeter-wave)

Operational Efficiency: Increased throughput, reduced manual checks

Technical Features: Remote-local station communication, image mode targeting

Footprint: Compact design for easy integration into existing infrastructure

5. Impacts and Benefits

Enhanced passenger screening without physical/manual body checks

Reduced wait times and streamlined security processes

Improved safety and threat detection capabilities

Gender-specific scanning improves privacy and compliance

Supports airport modernization and operational efficiency

Real-time remote communication enables effective threat response

6. Conclusion

The EQO Body Scanner project at TIA achieved its objective of modernizing airport security while addressing infrastructural and personnel limitations. Through automated detection and a strategically designed setup, the project has enhanced screening effectiveness, improved passenger experience, and provided a framework for future technology integrations at Nepalese airports. Ongoing training, maintenance, and infrastructure support are essential to sustain these improvements.