Cultural Diversity and the Operational Performance of Airport Security Checkpoints: An Analysis of Energy Consumption and Passenger Flow

• Published in: Energies (Basel) Vol. 18; no. 14; p. 3853
• Main Authors: Ryczyński, Jacek, Kierzkowski, Artur, Nowakowska, Marta, Uchroński, Piotr
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Basel MDPI AG 01.07.2025
• Subjects: Airline passengers; Airline security; Airport security; airport security screening checkpoints; Airports; Analysis; carbon footprint; Civil aviation; culture differences awareness; Demographic aspects; Diversity equity & inclusion; Energy consumption; Energy demand; Energy efficiency; Energy management systems; Energy use; Information systems; Infrastructure; Intercultural communication; Literature reviews; Metal detectors; Methods; Multiculturalism; Multiculturalism & pluralism; Multilingualism; operational performance; passenger flow; Passenger screening; Passenger security screening; Perceptions; Privacy; Religion; Safety and security measures; Security management; Social norms; Transportation terminals; Poland
• ISSN: 1996-1073; 1996-1073
• DOI: 10.3390/en18143853

This paper examines the operational consequences and energy demands associated with the growing cultural diversity of air travellers at airport security checkpoints. The analysis focuses on how an increasing proportion of passengers requiring enhanced security screening, due to cultural, religious, or linguistic factors, affects both system throughput and energy consumption. The methodology integrates synchronised measurement of passenger flow with real-time monitoring of electricity usage. Four operational scenarios, representing incremental shares (0–15%) of passengers subject to extended screening, were modelled. The findings indicate that a 15% increase in this passenger group leads to a statistically significant rise in average power consumption per device (3.5%), a total energy usage increase exceeding 4%, and an extension of average service time by 0.6%—the cumulative effect results in a substantial annual contribution to the airport’s carbon footprint. The results also reveal a higher frequency and intensity of power consumption peaks, emphasising the need for advanced infrastructure management. The study emphasises the significance of predictive analytics, dynamic resource allocation, and the implementation of energy-efficient technologies. Furthermore, systematic intercultural competency training is recommended for security staff. These insights provide a scientific basis for optimising airport security operations amid increasing passenger heterogeneity.