by David Ball
Staff Writer
The Jacksonville Aviation Authority is looking to step up security features and technology integration at Jacksonville International Airport, according to recent request for bid documents.
The request for letters of interest and statements of qualifications and experience (commonly called an RFQ) is to solicit response from firms capable of developing an “intelligent technology program for JAA. The program will be implemented as an overall airport safety and security program for JIA.”
JAA spokesperson Michael Stewart said he couldn’t speak to many of the specifics of the proposed security changes, as that could be considered a breach of security. However, he said airports around the world are looking to technology to provide better coordination and administration of security.
“The total intent of security is not to remain static. If you remain static, then the bad guys figure that out,” said Stewart. “So the entire industry is in a constant state of trying to enhance its security initiatives.”
According to the RFQ document, the primary focus of the program is to make JIA “a more secure, efficient and effective airport system through the use of intelligent technology. As owner and operator of JIA, the JAA desires turn-key security solutions using technology-based applications as the catalyst for this project.”
The RFQ includes several program components including electronic security tracking of passengers, baggage and employees. However, some components and acronyms are not fully described:
• Radio frequency ID asset tracking
• Employee screening
• VIP location tracking
• Employee location tracking
• Automated parking and billing
• Air cargo asset tracking
• Wheelchair/trolley tracking
• Ground vehicle tracking
• Evacuation/muster point
• Passenger traffic management
• Baggage tracking
• Computer aided dispatch
• Mobile incident tracking
• Intelligent video
• Back scatter/millimeter wave threat detection
• Point of access
• Biometrics access control/common access card
• Perimeter Control
• Vehicle screening
• Staff scheduling
• Control room/dispatch
• Employee incident logs
• PDA mobile supervisor
• Virtual presence
• Contingencies for repairs
Stewart said the scope of the program extends to safety issues that have little to do with terrorism or other threats to the ability of passengers to fly in and out of the airport.
“Incidents in the last year or two, some of those incidents have been more associated with the movement of contraband and maybe illegal weapons, which don’t really negatively impact the operations of the airlines but are still bad,” he said. “So we’re trying to capture some of that, too.”
To submit a proposal, a firm must document experience in installation of safety and security systems and prove it has been engaged in security systems project management or implementation for at least three years and has worked on similar “intelligent airport” projects.
If eventually awarded a contract, the company would be expected to “actively monitor and alarm security events throughout the airport’s perimeter property, provide event visualization to include imaging capabilities during day/night atmospheric conditions and fully integrate with the airport’s Access Control System (ACS) using intelligent video applications,” the RFQ states.
The company must own, operate, maintain and install all of the required equipment and also train associated JAA personnel to comply with the program. A company will be selected based on “proven technical experience that would strongly support its ability to develop a comprehensive and operable Intelligent Airport Safety and Security Technology Program in compliance with TSA and FAA standards and regulations.”
As for what JAA expects to pay for this security program, Stewart said that won’t be narrowed down until firms begin to submit their bids.
“An RFQ is not based on cost. There is probably a budget range but I don’t have that number,” he said. “But I can guarantee we are spending tens of millions of dollars more during a post-9-11 environment than we would be in a pre-9-11 environment.”
Responses to the RFQ are due April 18. The RFQ is available at JAA’s Web site, www.jaa.aero.