Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) PLC has acquired the Rapiscan Itemiser 5X, the newest Explosive Trace Detection (ETD) technology breakthrough. SAHCO said it made them the first and only ground-handling company in Nigeria to integrate this advanced system.

Head of Corporate Communications, Adetola Uansohia, said the state-of-the-art machine would significantly boost SAHCO’s cargo screening capabilities, ensuring precise detection of explosives and narcotics—meeting crucial safety standards for importing and exporting cargo to the United States and other Western countries.

The Itemiser 5X is widely recognised and recommended by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for its superior security screening capabilities. Uansohia said: “This investment underscores SAHCO’s unwavering commitment to ensuring safe, efficient, and internationally compliant cargo operations.

“Furthermore, the Itemiser 5X represents a significant advancement in security screening, featuring an optimised detection library that can identify a wide range of explosives and narcotics. Its advanced software algorithm enhances accuracy and efficiency, making it a crucial addition to SAHCO’s security infrastructure.

“To further strengthen security measures, SAHCO has strategically deployed three units of the Itemiser 5X across its major operational hubs, reinforcing its commitment to global security standards,” she said.

Designed for superior performance, the Itemiser 5X incorporates a fast clear-down mechanism that efficiently removes residual explosive traces after detection, ensuring seamless operations.

Its innovative desorber design and sample wand improve sample collection accuracy, while remote monitoring capabilities allow real-time system oversight through a dedicated console.

Engineered for ease of use, the machine is lightweight, portable, and equipped with a built-in handle for convenient transport. Its advanced features include stable humidity control, a high-capacity hard drive for reliable performance, and an automated internal calibration system that reduces consumable usage while maximising detection accuracy.

Additionally, the non-radioactive ionization source eliminates the need for annual wipe tests and special licensing, simplifying compliance requirements.