The APIDS (Automated Prohibited Item Detection) system is an artificial intelligence-based tool designed to enhance security screening at Canadian airports by automatically identifying potentially dangerous items in passenger luggage. The system works by analyzing X-ray and CT scan images of baggage, comparing the physical properties of items (such as density and atomic number) against known threat profiles to flag suspicious contents for human review.
This system affects airport security operations and ultimately the traveling public by improving detection capabilities while maintaining human oversight of final security decisions. The algorithms are continuously evaluated and updated to meet regulatory standards set by Transport Canada, the TSA, and ECAC. Currently in development, this system involves no collection of personal information about passengers—it analyzes only baggage contents. All algorithms undergo rigorous testing with real explosives before deployment to ensure they meet stringent security certification requirements.
