SeeTrue AI ECAC Certification

by | Jan 9, 2026 | Uncategorized | 0 comments

Executive Summary

SeeTrue AI’s achievement of ECAC certification for its Automated Prohibited Items Detection Software (APIDS) represents a watershed moment in aviation security technology. As the first and only solution to receive this certification, SeeTrue has established a new benchmark for AI-powered security screening that could significantly impact Singapore’s aviation security operations at Changi Airport and the upcoming Changi Terminal 5.

Case Study: SeeTrue AI’s Certification Journey

Background & Technology

SeeTrue AI developed its APIDS solution to address persistent challenges in aviation security screening: human fatigue, inconsistent detection rates, and operational bottlenecks. The software integrates with existing CT scanner infrastructure from Analogic and Rapiscan, using artificial intelligence to automatically detect prohibited items in passenger baggage.

Certification Milestones

April 2025: National Dutch Certification

  • Initial regulatory approval in the Netherlands
  • Validated detection capabilities in controlled testing
  • Enabled limited deployment in Dutch airports

January 2026: ECAC Certification

  • Completed rigorous Common Evaluation Program (CEP) testing
  • First APIDS solution to meet European aviation security standards
  • Approved for ECAC Standard 1 algorithm implementation
  • Enables Image on Alarm Only (IOAO) operational concepts

Key Technical Features

Integration Architecture

  • Open architecture interface with CT scanners
  • On-premises image processing for data security
  • Seamless integration with existing operator interfaces
  • Real-time automated threat detection

Operational Benefits

  • Enhanced throughput at security checkpoints
  • Reduced operator workload and fatigue
  • Consistent detection performance 24/7
  • Regulatory-approved automation

Early Deployment Results

According to SeeTrue CEO Assaf Frenkel, airports that implemented the certified algorithm in IOAO mode have experienced “immediate gains in throughput and operational efficiency.” While specific metrics aren’t disclosed in the press release, the ECAC certification suggests the system meets stringent detection rate requirements while reducing false alarm rates.

Outlook: Industry Implications

Short-Term (2026-2027)

Market Positioning SeeTrue’s first-mover advantage in ECAC certification positions the company as the preferred vendor for European airports seeking to modernize screening operations. Competitors will need 12-24 months minimum to complete similar certification processes.

Adoption Trajectory

  • European airports upgrading CT scanner infrastructure will prioritize ECAC-certified APIDS solutions
  • Early adopters will likely include major European hubs seeking competitive advantage
  • North American and Asian airports may adopt pending local regulatory approvals

Regulatory Influence ECAC’s certification framework may influence other aviation authorities, including ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization), to establish similar standards for AI-based screening technologies.

Medium-Term (2028-2030)

Technology Evolution

  • Integration with additional CT scanner manufacturers
  • Enhanced detection algorithms covering broader threat categories
  • Multi-modal screening (combining X-ray, CT, and millimeter wave technologies)
  • Predictive analytics for security risk assessment

Operational Transformation Airports will increasingly shift toward “lights-out” screening operations where AI handles routine detection, freeing human operators for exception handling and passenger service roles.

Economic Impact

  • Reduced staffing requirements at security checkpoints
  • Lower training costs due to simplified operator responsibilities
  • Capital investment shift from labor to technology infrastructure

Long-Term (2031+)

Industry Standardization AI-powered automated detection will become the baseline requirement for aviation security, with manual-only screening considered outdated and non-compliant with international standards.

Broader Security Applications The technology will expand beyond aviation to seaports, borders, critical infrastructure, and urban security checkpoints, creating a comprehensive AI-driven security ecosystem.

Impact on Singapore

Current Context: Changi Airport

Singapore Changi Airport is consistently ranked among the world’s best airports, handling approximately 60-70 million passengers annually (pre-pandemic levels). Singapore has historically been an early adopter of aviation technology, making it a natural candidate for advanced screening solutions.

Existing Infrastructure

  • Changi operates modern CT-based screening equipment
  • Strong emphasis on passenger experience and minimal wait times
  • Government support for innovation through Smart Nation initiative

Strategic Relevance for Singapore

1. Terminal 5 Development

Changi Terminal 5 (T5), expected to open in the mid-2030s, will eventually increase Changi’s capacity to 150 million passengers annually. This massive expansion provides a greenfield opportunity to implement cutting-edge screening technology from the outset.

Key Considerations for T5

  • Design screening checkpoints around AI-automated detection from day one
  • Minimize physical footprint of security areas while maintaining throughput
  • Create seamless, contactless passenger journey
  • Establish T5 as global benchmark for security innovation

2. Passenger Experience Enhancement

Singapore’s aviation strategy prioritizes passenger experience. SeeTrue’s APIDS technology aligns with this goal by:

  • Reducing wait times at security checkpoints
  • Minimizing invasive secondary screenings
  • Creating more predictable processing times
  • Enabling faster peak-period operations

3. Workforce Optimization

Singapore faces labor challenges in aviation, including:

  • Aging workforce in security roles
  • Competition for talent from other sectors
  • High labor costs relative to regional competitors

AI-automated screening could:

  • Reduce security officer headcount requirements by 30-40%
  • Redeploy staff to higher-value customer service roles
  • Lower training time for security personnel
  • Reduce fatigue-related errors

4. Regional Hub Competitiveness

Singapore competes with regional hubs including Dubai, Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur. Advanced screening technology provides competitive advantages:

  • Faster connection times for transit passengers
  • Enhanced security reputation
  • Operational efficiency enabling competitive landing fees
  • Marketing differentiation as technology leader

Regulatory Considerations

CAAS Approval Process The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) would need to evaluate and approve APIDS technology before deployment. Considerations include:

  • Recognition of ECAC certification as equivalent standard
  • Independent validation testing in Singapore context
  • Data privacy and security requirements
  • Integration with existing security protocols

Timeline Estimate

  • Regulatory review and testing: 12-18 months
  • Pilot deployment at existing terminals: 6-12 months
  • Full-scale rollout: 18-24 months
  • Total time to operational deployment: 3-4 years

Implementation Scenarios

Scenario 1: Phased Deployment (Most Likely)

Phase 1 (2027-2028): Pilot Program

  • Deploy APIDS at 4-6 screening lanes in Terminal 3
  • Monitor performance metrics: detection rates, throughput, false alarms
  • Gather passenger feedback and operational data
  • Estimated cost: S$3-5 million

Phase 2 (2028-2029): Terminal Expansion

  • Roll out to all terminals based on pilot success
  • Replace or upgrade 40-50 existing screening lanes
  • Train security staff on new systems
  • Estimated cost: S$25-35 million

Phase 3 (2030s): Terminal 5 Integration

  • Design T5 security areas around APIDS capabilities
  • Implement IOAO operations by default
  • Integrate with biometric and contactless systems
  • Estimated cost: S$50-75 million (as part of T5 budget)

Scenario 2: Accelerated Adoption (Optimistic)

Singapore partners with SeeTrue as early reference customer in Asia-Pacific, deploying system across all terminals by 2029 in exchange for favorable pricing and technology transfer opportunities.

Scenario 3: Conservative Approach (Pessimistic)

Singapore waits for broader industry adoption and proven track record, deploying only in T5 opening (mid-2030s), potentially losing first-mover advantages to regional competitors.

Economic Impact Analysis

Capital Investment

  • Initial deployment: S$30-40 million
  • Annual maintenance and software licensing: S$3-5 million
  • Integration and training costs: S$5-8 million

Operational Savings (Annual)

  • Labor cost reduction: S$15-25 million
  • Efficiency gains (faster throughput): S$5-10 million
  • Reduced false alarm processing: S$2-4 million
  • Total annual savings: S$22-39 million

Return on Investment Payback period: 2-3 years, with ongoing operational benefits

Broader Economic Benefits

  • Enhanced airport competitiveness: improved passenger volumes
  • Technology sector development: potential partnerships with local tech firms
  • Knowledge economy growth: expertise in AI security applications
  • Regional leadership positioning: attracting aviation innovation investments

Risks and Challenges

Technical Risks

  • Detection performance in high-humidity Singapore environment
  • Integration with existing Changi systems and workflows
  • Cybersecurity vulnerabilities in AI-powered systems
  • Technology obsolescence in rapidly evolving AI landscape

Operational Risks

  • Staff resistance to automation and job displacement concerns
  • Passenger privacy concerns about AI surveillance
  • System downtime disrupting airport operations
  • Over-reliance on single-vendor technology

Regulatory Risks

  • CAAS approval delays or non-approval
  • Changing international security standards
  • Data sovereignty and localization requirements
  • Liability questions for AI-based security decisions

Mitigation Strategies

  • Rigorous local testing and validation programs
  • Phased deployment with fallback to manual screening
  • Staff retraining and redeployment programs
  • Multi-vendor strategy for critical systems
  • Continuous regulatory engagement and compliance monitoring

Strategic Recommendations for Singapore

For Changi Airport Group

  1. Initiate discussions with SeeTrue and CAAS immediately
  2. Conduct feasibility study for Terminal 3 pilot program
  3. Include APIDS requirements in T5 design specifications
  4. Develop workforce transition plan for security staff
  5. Establish KPIs for technology assessment

For CAAS

  1. Review ECAC certification documentation
  2. Establish Singapore-specific testing requirements
  3. Create regulatory pathway for AI security technologies
  4. Engage with ICAO on international standards development
  5. Consider fast-track approval for proven technologies

For Government Agencies

  1. Align APIDS adoption with Smart Nation objectives
  2. Explore local technology partnership opportunities
  3. Support workforce development for AI-security sector
  4. Position Singapore as regional testbed for aviation innovation
  5. Leverage adoption for tourism and connectivity marketing

Competitive Intelligence

Regional Competitor Actions

  • Hong Kong International Airport: Recently upgraded to CT scanners; likely to consider APIDS
  • Dubai International: Heavy investment in automation; strong candidate for early adoption
  • Tokyo Haneda/Narita: Japanese focus on robotics and AI makes adoption likely
  • Seoul Incheon: Known for technology leadership; potential first-mover in Asia

Singapore’s Competitive Position Singapore should aim to be the first major Asia-Pacific hub to deploy ECAC-certified APIDS technology, establishing leadership in aviation security innovation and maintaining competitive edge in passenger experience.

Conclusion

SeeTrue AI’s ECAC certification represents more than a regulatory milestone—it signals the beginning of a fundamental transformation in aviation security. For Singapore, this technology offers strategic opportunities to enhance Changi Airport’s global competitiveness, optimize operations, and maintain its position as a premier aviation hub.

The optimal path forward involves initiating pilot deployment in existing terminals within 2-3 years while designing Terminal 5 around AI-automated screening capabilities from inception. This approach balances innovation leadership with operational prudence, positioning Singapore at the forefront of next-generation aviation security while managing implementation risks.

Given Singapore’s historical role as an early adopter of aviation technology, strong government support for innovation, and the strategic imperative to maintain regional hub leadership, moving decisively on APIDS adoption aligns with national interests and competitive positioning. The question is not whether Singapore will adopt this technology, but how quickly it can be deployed to maximize competitive advantage.