The recent discovery of explosive materials has highlighted the need for improved detection methods in freight and cargo planes. A Milton Keynes company has told the BBC that it has technology which can detect explosives. Instrumentation specialist, Quantitech has developed the TeknoScan TSI-3000. The device is a highly sensitive, portable system which can detect most banned substances. Quantitech say their system, which is currently being trialled in Holland, can provide complete analysis of a sample in three minutes or less. Sales Director Dominic Duggan told BBC Three Counties Radio how it works: "The device analyses a sample collected from the air inside a cargo container," explained Mr Duggan. "That concentrated sample is then analysed inside the instrument to detect any of 50 explosives or narcotics that might be present in the container." Critically important The company say the system has detected and identified threat substances from samples as small as 0.1 nanograms. They claim an extremely high probability of detection if an individual, object or container has been in contact with a banned substance, even if masking agents are present. "A reliable technology for detecting banned substances on passengers and in freight cargo is critically important to every aspect of security. "We believe this technology can make a significant contribution to improving the scanning of cargo coming through UK and European ports and airports," said Mr Duggan. The TSI-3000 was launched in the UK during the Transport Security Conference at London Olympia in September and will also be exhibited at the Emergency Services Show 2010 at Stoneleigh, on November 24 and 25.
Source: BBC

 

Source: BBC

Emergency services were scrambled to Cardiff Airport to help escort an RAF jet to safety.

The RAF Hawk is thought to have got into difficulty after flying into a flock of birds.

South Wales fire service said six crews were dispatched.

The jet landed safely at around 1025 BST and was escorted to a secure area at the airport by a convoy of security vehicles.

Crews from Llantwit Major, Barry, Penarth, Cowbridge, Ely and Cardiff central attended.

A Cardiff Airport spokeswoman said the RAF Hawk landed because of a believed bird strike.

The aircraft did not sustain any damage in the incident and has since departed the airport.

A spokeswoman for RAF Valley at Anglesey confirmed the aircraft involved was from the base and was flying in the Pembrey area of Carmarthenshire when it was hit by a bird.

It said the jet had followed normal procedure in returning to the nearest airport.

 

Source: BBC

UK BUDGET airline easyJet was given just 90 days to ensure more flights run on time - or it will be forced to change its name.