Airport seating and furniture manufacturer Arconas has partnered with Amulet Protective Technologies to unveil an industry first: bullet- and blast-resistant airport furniture at Brownsville/ South Padre Island International Airport in Texas.
The Arconas Flyaway tandem seating with Amulet Ballistic Barrier technology integrated during the manufacturing process are designed to shield travellers in the event of an act of violence in a public space. The barriers are designed to be uniquely compatible with interior furnishings and meet the criteria for handgun, rifle and explosive-device threats. The seating is part of the Brownsville Airport’s new terminal, which covers 91,000 square feet and will be able to accommodate more carriers and passengers than the existing 50-year-old terminal.
According to Bryant Walker, the airport’s Director, “The new terminal incorporates the latest technology and features, including seating that can protect passengers and first responders if needed. Providing for the safety and comfort of our passengers is our top priority. We have no reason to believe we would ever need this technology, however, we try to plan for the unexpected. The decision to use Arconas seating with integrated Amulet barriers was an easy one to make.”
Commenting on the new seating solution, Arconas VP of Business Development, Lynn Gordon, said: “Arconas recogonises that our airport and transportation clients are looking for more options in their furniture. Terminal operators always take a safety-first approach to their facilities, so providing clients features that improve safety and protect lives has been incredibly well received.” She added: “We’re focused on improving the airport experience, which includes highly functional, durable, attractive, and now protective furniture.”
According to Amulet Protective Technologies President and CEO, Jeffrey Isquith, acts of violence in the public space have become a common occurrence. “Our No. 1 goal is to save lives – and this technology adds a critical layer of protection for the public. Amulet Ballistic Barriers are a 21st Century solution to saving lives and reducing injuries to innocent people.”
ʻInvisibleʼ technology such as Amulet’s barriers has fast become a key component of the physical security market, which is expected to double within the next few years.
