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Dishing up airport security

The UK Department of Transport sets tough security restrictions on airline caterers who have to deliver food and supplies to aircraft on the air side of security boundaries. All supplies need to be packed into tamper-proof metal containers in a secure setting and then transported through customs checkpoints into the airport itself.

FFL Airline Catering Services decided it needed to invest in security equipment to ensure compliance following a major expansion of its facilities to provide full-service catering to more airlines flying out of London's Gatwick Airport. They selected Axis Communications' network cameras for their 1000 square metre facility in Crawley, UK.

Mark Matthews, managing director of FFL, says, "We must comply with tight security measures which include keeping all food storage and preparation areas totally secure. Without the use of these Axis cameras to monitor key areas like our chiller and freezer units, we would have had to employ an extra member of staff just to act as a door man for these units.

"The cameras also act as a constant visual reminder that all security checks and procedures need to be adhered to at all times to ensure that we operate a secure and safe operation."

Furthermore, FFL found that an additional benefit included elimination of occasional diesel fuel thefts from its trucks while parked at the front of the unit.

"We are very pleased to see yet another example of how IP-based surveillance can help companies in the transportation market, like FFL, meet rigorous security policies and procedures", said Roy Alves, managing director of SCS Distribution.

"We see similar requirements arising in South Africa and a fast-growing interest in Video over IP for its ease of deployment, low system cost and flexibility, and are working with partners who provide system design and deployment expertise."

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