The US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has selected Miami International Airport (MIA) as a test site to trial drone detection technology to keep airports safe. The initial test by the U.S.’s TSA of technologies at MIA will detect, track and identify (DTI) drones, which are also known as Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), from entering the restricted airspace. Drones and other UAS technologies are used for a broad range of commercial and recreational purposes. TSA stated that these drones raise concerns in aviation security when flown into certain restricted airspaces.
MIA has been selected as TSA’s first UAS DTI testbed because of an ongoing perimeter intrusion technology pilot and the existing alliance with the airport. MIA director and CEO Lester Sola said: “We are extremely proud to be chosen by TSA for this landmark test of drone detection technology, which will reap unprecedented security benefits for MIA and our sister airports across the country.
“We look forward to bolstering our strong partnership with TSA through this new initiative, as we continue to advance our shared priority of enhancing the safety and security of our passengers, employees and business partners.”
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said: “Congratulations to MIA for being selected as the test airport for this historic security effort by our federal government.
“Miami-Dade County is fortunate to be the home of not only one of the nation’s leading airports in passenger and cargo operations but also in security and safety.”
TSA will analyse a wide range of security and surveillance technologies that can detect, track and identify UAS operations using radar, thermal imaging and artificial intelligence.
During the test process, technicians will test and evaluate the equipment and gather data that will be shared with the interagency and industry stakeholders for further assessment.
The collected data will help in developing solutions to reduce the risks faced by the US transportation system.
