Full-Body X-Ray Security Scanner Debuts
Travel Blog • Michael Yessis • 02.26.07 | 7:48 AM ET
Initial reports out of Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, where a full-body X-ray machine (read: one that can see through clothes) was unveiled Friday, reveal that air travelers seem willing to give up some of their privacy in favor of improved security. “Most passengers asked to submit to a full-body X-ray at Security Checkpoint B didn’t bat an eyelash,” writes Faye Bowers in the Christian Science Monitor. “Nine in 10 gamely stepped up to a scanner about the size of a vending machine, placed their feet on the red footprints painted on the carpet, and raised their arms.”
The machine, known as a backscatter, is on loan to the airport as part of a pilot program. If the trial period is deemed a success, the AP reports, the full-body X-ray machines will be rolled out at Los Angeles International Airport and New York’s John F. Kennedy Airport later this year.
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Timen Swijtink 02.26.07 | 10:20 AM ET
This is slightly troubling to me.
A female friend of mine was asked to use this thing once and she heard the security guys behind the monitor say “nice butt.” This might sound innocent, but I believe it goes to show that not everyone may be professional enough to operate such equipment.
Jim Gardner 06.02.07 | 7:36 PM ET
Nice Butt comment spoken about my wife in a TSA line or anyother would likely as not get me severely injured and or dead and would certainly cause the speaker severe pain in the process. No one is above the law . . . not even the TSA types that, given some I have seen, wonder where “they” come from.
Not only would it ruffle mine and my wifes feathers but, it is prosecutable and very unprofessional.
Stock Trading Programs 02.20.08 | 4:24 PM ET
Airports become more and more complex when it comes to security, but the main problem is that we should think why this security is really necessary: because we are afraid and that is not a normal thing. We shouldn’t be afraid.
all in one 07.04.08 | 6:00 PM ET
Thats a good idea if you ask me. I used to fly a lot but lately I’ve been do it to a minimal because am scared of something bad happening. The more security check the better. But they should make them more efficient