Miami International Tests $5 Million Perimeter Security Tech

MIAMI, FL — Miami International Airport has been selected as one of only two airports in the country that will be testing what airport officials described as $5 million "cutting-edge" intrustion detection technologies. If successful, the technology could spread to other airports nationwide.

"Having MIA tapped to play a key role in evaluating cutting-edge security technologies for airports across the United States is an absolute honor for our county," said Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez. “We appreciate our federal partners at the TSA for their collaboration and funding in this endeavor.”

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Miami International along with the San Jose International Airport were selected by the Transportation Security Administration to test emerging perimeter intrusion detection and deterrence technologies that have been developed and tested in other high-risk transportation and public area venues, according to airport spokesperson Karla Cobreiro.

The approximate $5 million cost of the system will be paid by the federal government through the Make America Secure and Prosperous Appropriations Act, which allocated funding to develop a multi-year plan to analyze and test perimeter intrusion detection and deterrence technologies at airports.

"TSA officials will send a survey team visit to MIA by mid-November to assess the potential scope and direction of the project, and will work alongside the airport for the procurement and installation of the technology, selected jointly by the TSA and the airport," according to Cobreiro.

She said that the system will be deployed in key areas along the airport perimeter. TSA will work with airport officials regarding the placement of equipment.

“We look forward to being on the frontline of this cutting-edge security technology,” added Miami-Dade Aviation Director Lester Sola. “Opportunities like this, which assist us in providing a safer and more efficient airport for passengers and business partners alike, will always be welcomed with open arms.”

TSA will continue assessments, testing, data collection and operational refinements through August 2019. Key findings are expected in September 2019, Cobreiro said.

Photo courtesy Miami International Airport