Smiths Detection HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX scanners across all Heathrow terminals
Deployed
Passenger security lanes in all four Heathrow terminals have been replaced with CT scanners, Heathrow announced on 23 January 2026 at the close of a £1bn upgrade. Smiths Detection confirmed on 30 January 2026 that the scanner is its HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX. Heathrow calls itself the largest airport in the world to fully roll out next-generation CT security scanners, and Smiths makes the same claim.
Computed tomography builds a three-dimensional image of each bag instead of the flat views produced by conventional X-ray, and Smiths pairs that volumetric image with automatic threat recognition software intended to reduce manual bag checks. Smiths says the scanners meet ECAC's C3 standard, which it describes as the highest performance standard for explosives detection systems for cabin baggage. For passengers, Heathrow says liquids and electronics can stay in hand luggage, and Smiths specifies liquids of up to 2 litres.
Heathrow chose the equipment in March 2021. Smiths' announcement of that selection also covered iLane automatic tray-return systems, its Checkpoint.Evo plus lane-management software and a ten-year equipment service agreement.
With every terminal converted, the open questions concern performance. Lane throughput and alarm rates for the new lanes have not been published by either company.
What the system does
Passenger security lanes in all four Heathrow terminals have been replaced with CT scanners, Heathrow announced on 23 January 2026 at the close of a £1bn upgrade. Smiths Detection confirmed on 30 January 2026 that the scanner is its HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX. Heathrow calls itself the largest airport in the world to fully roll out next-generation CT security scanners, and Smiths makes the same claim.
Computed tomography builds a three-dimensional image of each bag instead of the flat views produced by conventional X-ray, and Smiths pairs that volumetric image with automatic threat recognition software intended to reduce manual bag checks. Smiths says the scanners meet ECAC's C3 standard, which it describes as the highest performance standard for explosives detection systems for cabin baggage. For passengers, Heathrow says liquids and electronics can stay in hand luggage, and Smiths specifies liquids of up to 2 litres.
Heathrow chose the equipment in March 2021. Smiths' announcement of that selection also covered iLane automatic tray-return systems, its Checkpoint.Evo plus lane-management software and a ten-year equipment service agreement.
With every terminal converted, the open questions concern performance. Lane throughput and alarm rates for the new lanes have not been published by either company.
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