HIA utilizes advanced technologies to ensure safe post-COVID-19 travel
Hamad International Airport (HIA), which was recently declared the third best airport in the world by SKYTRAX, is stepping up efforts to optimize the safety of passengers and staff for the post-COVID-19 period.
The airport yesterday revealed that it will begin using cutting-edge technologies including disinfectant robots and thermal imaging helmets as part of its safety measures in the fight against COVID-19.
With the use of futuristic technologies, HIA said it will continue to conduct thermal screening and disinfection procedures for all passengers and staff.
تطوير إجراءات السلامة في #مطار_حمد_الدولي باستخدام التكنولوجيا الحديثة التي يمكنها تعزيز سلامة المسافرين والموظفين.@qatarairwaysar @qatardutyfree pic.twitter.com/Pi1yd7YrnP
— Hamad Int'l Airport (@HIAQatar) May 19, 2020
The Smart Screening Helmet
HIA will utilize smart screening helmets that will allow contactless temperature measurement. This portable, safe, and effective helmet uses advanced technologies such as infrared thermal imaging, artificial intelligence, and AR (augmented reality) display. It can also enable the implementation of mobile deployment-based control scenarios.
Disinfectant Robots
In areas considered as vulnerable with high passenger flow, HIA will deploy disinfectant robots. These are fully autonomous mobile devices that emit concentrated UV-C light, which helps eliminate the majority of infectious microorganisms.
UV disinfection tunnels
The airport has also invested in ultraviolet (UV) disinfection tunnels that will be used to disinfect all checked-in passenger luggage (departing, arriving, and transferring). Additionally, all baggage trolleys and tubs will be regularly disinfected, HIA highlighted.
Additional safety measures
- Hand sanitizers will be made available to all passengers at key locations within the airport.
- Social distancing guidelines of 1.5 meters will be applied across all passenger touchpoints around the airport. This will be visible through floor markings, signage, and distance seating.
- Cashless transactions through cards will be encouraged at all HIA retail and F&B outlets. The airport said it is looking into offering online or in-app purchases in the future.
- The airport will monitor the use of face masks through a face mask detection system that utilizes artificial intelligence and computer vision technologies to automatically detect if everyone is wearing masks.
- disinfection procedures at high contact areas will be carried out every 10 to 15 minutes.
- HIA will also ensure the availability and access to hand sanitizers for everyone.
Chief Operating Officer at HIA, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al Meer commented, "HIA has adapted to the changes brought on by the spread of COVID-19 on the world, especially on the travel sector. Recovery plans have been put in place with priority given to the safety and comfort of travelers and employees. These plans include the use of the latest advanced technology to achieve the highest safety standards for the future travel experience."
Meanwhile, health authorities in Qatar continue to implement the highest level of monitoring, detection, and management procedures to deal with the virus, the public has been advised to follow certain measures to safeguard their health.
For any queries, or concerns related to COVID-19 in Qatar, the public can contact a 24/7 hotline set up by the Ministry. The hotline number is 16000 and is toll-free.
Here's everything you need to know about the virus, including ways to protect yourself.
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Cover and Inline Images Credit: Twitter/@HIAQatar
