The Department for Transport (DfT) has announced that it will help six British companies develop screening technology to enhance UK security and reduce delays at airports.

Each of the firms will receive a share of £450,000 to develop scanning equipment to improve threat detection and reduce the number of false alarms and manual checks, which the government said will speed up screening processes and reduce inconvenience to passengers.

The DfT said the investment will ensure the long-term future of aviation, which is worth around £20 billion to the UK economy, and help keep the country competitive.

Alongside grant funding, the DfT added that the programme will provide tailored business support workshops delivered by experts at the Connected Places Catapult.

These workshops will provide advice and mentoring on issues including technical matters, corporate finance, regulation and customer needs.

“Safety is our top priority and this funding will strengthen the UK’s already rigorous security standards, bolster our competitiveness internationally and ensure that passengers can continue to fly with ease of mind,” said aviation minister, Mike Kane. “As part of our Plan for Change, we are turbocharging investment in the aviation sector and going further and faster with expansion plans to kickstart economic growth and deliver high-skilled jobs across the country.”

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