DHS, South Korea collaboration targets aviation security

Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) officials said the agency has partnered with South Korea to conduct a civil aviation security technology field demonstration.

DHS personnel said the agreement with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport of the Republic of Korea (MOLIT) enables a joint field demonstration – piloting the Common Viewer Air System.

The cloud-based baggage pre-screening software system supports Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) missions, resulting in sharing information, identifying risks, and bolstering safeguards to improve international aviation security.

“With this pilot, security officers will be able to remotely screen checked baggage before arriving in the U.S. and landing at ATL (Jackson Atlanta International Airport),” David Taylor, S&T’s CBP portfolio manager, said. “The goal is to maintain strong security while enhancing the passenger experience and providing another means of contactless screening.”

The field demonstration facilitates alternative methods of TSA screening to be implemented at ATL and Incheon International Airport (ICN) outside Seoul.

“Our objective is to continue to work toward recognizing each other’s countermeasures to improve efficiency and decrease redundancy,” Jin-hwan Yoon, acting Deputy Minister for Civil Aviation Office, MOLIT, said. “A mutual goal for TSA and MOLIT is to achieve our security missions while streamlining the passenger experience as much as possible.”

Gary Renfrow, assistant administrator for TSA International Operations, said the partnership introduces innovative touchless technology providing an additional layer of security and a safer, healthier, and more convenient process for international passengers.