Installing adequate security measures in the North American airports is a rising priority for the airport personnel, government, and vendors that supply perimeter technology.
Analysis from Frost & Sullivan finds that the market earned revenue of $73.8 million in 2009 and estimates this to reach $1.2 billion in 2016. The increasing number of travelers, especially in major airports, poses a security risk. Therefore, it is essential to find a proper technology to enforce strict security procedures at airports.
Installing adequate security measures in the North American airports is a rising priority for the airport personnel, government, and vendors that supply perimeter technology.
Analysis from Frost & Sullivan finds that the market earned revenue of $73.8 million in 2009 and estimates this to reach $1.2 billion in 2016. The increasing number of travelers, especially in major airports, poses a security risk. Therefore, it is essential to find a proper technology to enforce strict security procedures at airports.
"Infrastructure size and high traffic of travelers have become pressing issues, which force more security solutions to be implemented for protecting the perimeter," observes Frost & Sullivan. "The diligence of airport security directors, system integrators (SI), and hardware manufacturers is vital for an effective and efficient perimeter solution."
The overall spending on airport security has increased due to continued interest on combating threats related to critical infrastructure, especially after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.
Since then, airport security has become highly expensive in terms of implementation and maintenance, and the monitoring of carry-on baggage had added to the security costs. Major airports tend to capitalize on the technological advancements and upgrades, while smaller airports provide lesser security to sustain within their budget.
"To combat the issue of improper security measures and high costs, customizable solutions that entail open architecture options are likely to ease the challenge of high costs and allow full integration of Internet protocol (IP)-based products," says Frost & Sullivan. "The transition from analog to digital surveillance systems is expected to boost the airport security market."
Having a cohesive digital infrastructure is of high importance, as this allows airports to create more operable and efficient command and control centers, as well as operate extra viewing positions. The convergence of various security systems on one interoperable network system provides a unique opportunity for product vendors and SIs to increase market participation. SIs should continue to collaborate with emerging product vendors that are considered tier-3 competitors, to keep a stronghold on the market.
A total perimeter security solution model for airports, especially large hub types, is most effective in protecting critical infrastructure. Higher government spending on terminal operations is critical for passenger safety at airports. While this may be expensive, it is imperative to stop potential terrorist attacks on airport runways or terminal areas.