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Tampa Airport Begins Controversial Security Imaging Oct. 24

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By TED JACKOVICS | The Tampa Tribune

Published: October 14, 2008

TAMPA - The Transportation Security Administration on Oct. 24 will begin to use security devices at Tampa International Airport that can provide fuzzy images of passengers beneath their clothing, an airport official said.

TSA has scheduled a media event for Thursday afternoon at Airside C for briefings on the device and new self-select lanes intended to expedite passengers through security points.

The controversial "whole-body imaging" scanner drew criticism from the American Civil Liberties Union, which said it produces "strikingly graphic images of passengers' bodies.

TSA said passengers' privacy is ensured in various ways, including an image viewed by TSA officers that is blurry and will be deleted immediately after viewing.

In addition, passengers have the option of a pat-down search for themselves and their children in lieu of "whole-body imaging."

On or about Nov. 4, the federal agency is also expected to implement self-select lanes to allow passengers to choose which lane they will use based on their familiarity with security procedures.

The concept is intended to separate passengers familiar with removing their belts and shoes and taking other required steps from those less familiar with airport security or who may need more time to move children through lines.

Reporter Ted Jackovics can be reached at (813) 259-7817.

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