Four ways to provide improved protection at your airport

Ask most people in the street about protecting an airport, and the chances are they will be thinking in terms of improving security measures at the check-in desk. While this is of course a hugely important process in all airport facilities, there are many other areas in which protection is a must. For those who have simply walked through airports and never thought about their safety and security, here are four examples of ways to give the facility more in the way of protection. 

Always monitor the perimeters 

This is a rather obvious aspect of airport security, but it’s one that requires a great deal of effort. International airports especially cover a wide area, of course – Gatwick, to use an example, has a footprint of over 670 hectares – so monitoring the outside environment is always going to be problematic. Fencing is a must, but for smaller airfields it may not be financially practical to install it. The use of CCTV to keep a close eye on movements is crucial, but keeping intruders away remains a 24/7 process. 

Commission a security audit 

Even the best facilities in the world can become a target for unwanted attention, and in some cases airport managers may rely a little too much on their own observations and processes to keep the location safe. There are times, however, when a fresh pair of eyes can reveal the occasional potential issue. Independent safety audits are an excellent idea, in part because it’s all too easy to assume everything is fine and has been for some time. Complacency can and does occur, even when it’s completely unintentional. 

Always adopt a collaborative line 

No two airfields in the world are exactly the same, but all of them can face a number of potential security and safety issues. Managers from Lima and Los Angeles to London and Lusaka and all points in between need to remain as collaborative as possible. A good idea that arises in Sydney can be just as helpful in New York, and so on. Sharing best practices has been a viable business strategy for many decades, and it’s particularly important in the aviation industry. 

Implement an effective wildlife hazard management programme 

Various forms of wildlife can represent a major threat to the safety of planes, especially when they are taking off or landing. Here at Scarecrow, we offer an excellent range of bird control and bird dispersal products designed to minimise the risk of wildlife strikes. And while much of the wildlife threat at airports is from birds, our adaptable equipment is just as effective on coyotes, deer, monkeys, antelopes and more. To find out more, contact Scarecrow for a friendly, no obligation chat on 01825 766 363 or drop us a line via our Contact page. We hope to see you soon.