Which type of explosives detection system is commonly installed at airports?

Explosive Trace Detection (ETD) systems are frequently utilized at airports due to their effectiveness in identifying traces of explosive materials. These systems work by collecting very small particles or residues that may be present on a person, their belongings, or cargo. ETD technology typically involves swabbing surfaces or using specialized devices to detect explosive substances at a molecular level, making it highly sensitive and reliable for security screening.

The use of ETD systems in airports is critical because they can quickly indicate whether someone or something poses a potential threat without the need for invasive searching or physical inspections. They play a vital role in maintaining safety and security in aviation, as they can detect a wide variety of explosive compounds, some of which may not be easily identifiable by other means.

Other systems, such as Threat Image Projection (TIP) systems, contribute to training and improving the proficiency of security personnel but do not detect explosives in real-time. Metal detectors are primarily used to identify metallic items and are less effective for detecting non-metallic explosive devices. Infrared systems are more suited for monitoring heat signatures and detecting specific chemical compounds rather than the broad spectrum of explosives relevant to aviation security.