Functional lane design of Rotterdam the Hague Airport
Functional lane design of Rotterdam the Hague Airport
Rotterdam the Hague Airport develops a future-proof passenger security checkpoint
Services provided
Baseline performance assessment through data capture
EDS CB process and scenario modelling
Tailored CONOPs development for future operations
Functional designs for integrated security lanes
Structured trial approach and performance guidance
Key results
RTHA received validated functional designs aligned with future EDS CB implementation needs
The airport was able to clearly specify technical and operational requirements to lane manufacturers
Accurate baseline data eliminated guesswork in design decisions, improving confidence in future setups
Functional modelling allowed RTHA to understand the spatial and operational implications of each design
Guiding principles supported RTHA in setting up a trial project with a focus on monitoring and iterative optimisation
The engagement positioned RTHA for faster operational success after full solution rollout
Client reference
“By using the functional designs delivered by Point FWD, RTHA has been able to specify its essential input to a lane manufacturer for the lane-specific design phase.”
– Floris Tammes, Director of Operations.
Project description
Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTHA) faced the challenge of defining functional designs for its future security checkpoint process. To specify requirements for new security lanes including CONOPs (Concept of Operations), lane dimensions, image review setup, and optimal positioning within spatial constraints, RTHA needed detailed operational insights. The ultimate goal was to deliver accurate input to lane manufacturers and prepare for a future with EDS CB (Explosive Detection System for Cabin Baggage) technology.
Challenges
RTHA’s central challenge was twofold. First, it needed to accurately understand its existing security process performance. Second, it had to translate this understanding into functional design requirements that could inform procurement specifications and system integration. Without robust data and process models, making informed choices on checkpoint configuration—including optimal lane length, throughput capacity, and staffing levels—would be speculative at best. The challenge was compounded by the spatial constraints of the current checkpoint area, requiring creative yet technically sound design solutions.
Our solution
To support Rotterdam The Hague Airport in its transition toward EDS CB technology, Point FWD delivered a full-scope consultancy program focused on future-proofing the security checkpoint. Our work began with a baseline performance assessment using real-time data collection and analysis tools, establishing a clear understanding of current operations.
Building on these insights, we developed and validated functional designs for EDS CB-integrated security lanes, tailored to the airport’s spatial and operational context. This included detailed CONOPs modelling, lane dimensioning, image review configurations, and passenger flow strategies.
In parallel, Point FWD applied its in-house simulation and design tools to model future checkpoint scenarios and explore the impact of different configurations on capacity, staff workload, and efficiency.
Finally, we defined a structured deployment program approach, providing RTHA with the methodology, performance metrics, and guiding principles needed to effectively test and optimise new security lane setups.
About Rotterdam The Hague Airport
Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTHA) is a regional airport serving the Rotterdam and The Hague metropolitan areas in the Netherlands. As the third busiest airport in the country, RTHA offers a mix of scheduled and charter flights to European destinations, while maintaining a strong focus on efficiency, accessibility, and passenger experience. The airport is known for its forward-thinking approach to innovation and security, making it a valuable testing ground for new aviation technologies and processes.
Get in touch
Curious how this could work for your airport? Let’s talk.
Robin van Gemert
Lead Consultant
Planning and Design →