The International Symposium on Technology in Aviation Security was held in Las Vegas (USA) by the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) with the goal of improving and enhancing technological processes in the field of aviation security.

The event was attended by Ardak Utepov, Deputy Chairman of the Civil Aviation Committee of the MIID RK, Darkhan Yespotanov, Deputy Director General for Aviation Security of JSC Aviation Administration of Kazakhstan (AAK), Darkhan Katyshev, AAK Director of Aviation Security Department, and Marat Tuleshov, Deputy Chairman of the Board for Aviation Security of JSC Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport, and Gabit Suleev, Head of the Airport Screening Division.

During the forum, the following topics were discussed: the design of checkpoints and screening points at international airports, the application of new technologies on baggage and cargo screening, personnel education and training, cybersecurity in civil aviation, TSA standards and requirements for screening equipment, TSA security programs for airports that serve as the last point of departure in the United States, and other aviation security issues.

The participants went to the Las Vegas International Airport, which uses and tests the latest technologies in access control, passenger pre-flight screening, aircraft security, and airport perimeter security.

The delegation became acquainted with the latest models of screening equipment from the largest manufacturers, including Smiths Detection, Analogic Connect, Rapiscan System, and others, at the specialized exhibition.

Body scanners (Security Body Scanner) and explosive detection detectors were presented to the Kazakhstani side (ETD). The US partners intend to donate the equipment to the Astana Airport in 2023 under the US. Export Control and Border Security Program of the Embassy.

A meeting with Vice-Admiral David Pekoske, the first head of the US Transportation Security Administration, was also held on the conference grounds. Kazakhstan's intentions and plans for the opening of direct flights to the United States, as well as the work being done in preparation for the aviation security audit, were communicated to the head of the TSA.

TSA coordinators for Central Asia and the Middle East discussed measures and work processes for more effective interactions and enhancement of AAK’s oversight capabilities.

This participation is another one in the series of latest events designed to increase Kazakhstan’s aviation presence and importance in the international aviation context.