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Manchester Airport Testing X ray Security Scans

Fri, 16 Oct 2009

Travellers passing through Manchester Airport’s Terminal 2 are being invited to undergo x-ray scans as part of a new security trial.

The imaging technology works by bouncing X-rays off a person’s skin to produce a black and white, "ghost-like" outline of their body that will highlight any concealed and potentially dangerous objects.

The image is then checked by a security officer who can decide whether the passenger is clear to proceed or if a further search is required.

If the trial proves successful, the imaging technology could end up replacing current airport security checks such as 'pat down' searches and eliminate the need for passengers to remove certain items of clothing for checking.

Sarah Barrett, head of customer experience at Manchester Airport, said: "Our passengers tell us that they don't like being patted down by security staff at airports but they understand that it's a necessary part of keeping them safe."

"Imaging technology offers a potential alternative but we know that some people see it as controversial. That's why we're running a trial."

She added: "We're being completely open about how imaging technology works so that passengers can tell us whether it is an acceptable alternative."

"The process is entirely anonymous. We can assure the public that, contrary to popular misconception, imaging technology does not allow security staff to see passengers naked."

The x-ray scanner will be trialled for the next 12 months at Manchester Airport, although travellers will still have the option of undergoing the traditional security checks.
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