Smiths Detection, Lufthansa Cargo & Covenant Team up to Provide All-in-One Air Cargo Solution

PINE BROOK, N.J. & EAST MEADOW, N.Y. & JAMAICA, N.Y.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Smiths Detection, Lufthansa Cargo and Covenant Aviation Security, LLC, will provide an all-in-one TSA-approved security solution for the freight forwarding, air cargo shipping and logistics industry in the United States. This was announced today prior to the second Lufthansa Cargo Security Conference in East Meadow, N.Y.

The customers can benefit from the experience and expertise of three of the industry's most reputable transportation security enterprises: Lufthansa Cargo, a world-leading cargo carrier; Covenant’s specialized on-site security services; and Smiths Detection’s best-in-class, TSA-approved screening technologies including X-ray and explosives trace detection systems.

With more than 4,000 employees combined and facilities strategically located throughout the U.S., the partnership will provide both large and small freight forwarders and shippers with an array of air cargo solutions. These services, which include ground handling, security screening and equipment, warehousing, training and transportation, will enable shippers and forwarders to meet TSA screening mandates with this one-stop supply chain and air cargo security offering.

Mark Laustra, Vice President/GM of Homeland Security, Smiths Detection, said: “Smiths Detection is pleased to team with Lufthansa Cargo and Covenant to provide the best screening technology and most flexible and customizable menu of security solutions freight forwarders need to meet federal mandates. Our systems ensure fast throughput, resulting in smooth business operations while providing total and reliable screening for air cargo of all sizes.”

Klaus Holler, Vice President, the Americas, Lufthansa Cargo, said: “With ongoing regulatory developments and other challenges in the United States, security has become the cornerstone of all business processes. We're excited to team with such reputable partners to offer our clients a simplified, turn-key solution to optimize their business -- from transportation and warehouse handling to security screening and related technological services.”

Tom Long, Executive Vice President of Covenant Aviation Security, said: “As a qualified security screening services Contractor for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration, we look forward to providing total security solutions for the protection of our nation’s airways, travelers and supply chain. Now shippers and forwarders have access to the end-to-end security solutions needed to meet the TSA’s mandate in a cost-effective, streamlined way.”

Smiths Detection (www.smithsdetection.com) offers advanced security solutions in civil and military markets worldwide, developing and manufacturing government-regulated technology products that identify explosives, chemical and biological agents, weapons and contraband. It is part of Smiths Group (www.smiths.com), a global leader in applying advanced technologies to markets in threat as well as contraband detection, energy, medical devices, communications and engineered components. Smiths Group employs around 22,000 people in more than 50 countries.

Lufthansa Cargo AG (www.lufthansa-cargo.com) ranks among the world’s leading cargo carriers. In the 2008 financial year, the airline transported around 1.70 million tons of freight and mail and clocked up 8.3 billion revenue ton-kilometers. The company currently employs about 4,600 people worldwide. Lufthansa Cargo focuses on the airport-to-airport business. The cargo carrier serves some 300 destinations in 90 countries in a global network with its own fleet of freighters, the belly capacities of Lufthansa’s passenger aircraft and an extensive road services network. The bulk of the freight transported by Lufthansa Cargo is trans-shipped through Frankfurt. Lufthansa Cargo is a wholly-owned Lufthansa subsidiary. In the 2008 financial year, it posted revenues totalling 2.9 billion euros.

Covenant Aviation Security, LLC (www.covenantsecurity.com) is exclusively dedicated to the aviation community to provide total security solutions in the protection of our nation's airways and travelers. We provide quality services including airport screening, individualized products/services, and multifaceted/integrated project designs & installation. Covenant Aviation Security provides consistent quality services that are ethical, responsive and innovative for the safety and protection of our nation’s skies. We are recognized as a premier provider of professional security services which meet or exceed our customer's expectations.