New Security Screening Device Being Tested in Phoenix Airport

The new security screening device that is being used by Sky Harbor International Airport in Pheonix, Arizona, is on loan from the manufacturer, American Science and Engineering Inc. of Boston, Massachusetts. The airport began using it on Friday, February 23rd.

The machine takes x-ray images of passengers to detect explosives and other concealed weapons. It is used as a secondary security device when the passengers do not pass through preliminary screening through the metal detector, at least during the trial period. Officials are hoping to soon install the devices in both Los Angeles and New York airports.

The passenger is given the option to use the screening device in lieu of the alternative pat-down method.

Those opposed to the screening device say that it is too invasive, and when used, shows and image through the passenger's clothing with surprising clarity.

Therefore, the image has been altered by the Transportation Security Administration to look more live a sketch of the passenger's body. The image is still clear enough to see concealed weapons, but some say not clear enough.

The machine is used by the passenger standing in front of an x-ray unit about the size of a closet, with the palms of their hands facing forward. They then turn around and be viewed from the backside.

According to Barry Steinhardt, director of the Technology and Liberty Project at the ACLU in Washington, D.C., "The more obscure they make the image, the more obscure the contraband, weapons and explosives," he continued, "The graphic image is a strip-search. You shouldn't have to be strip-searched to get on an airplane. Millions of Americans would regard them as pornographic." 1

The use of the screening device to the passenger is completely voluntary, however, and some might prefer it to the pat-down search. Some might consider a pat-down more embarrassing and invasive.