Numerous airports have tested the system, but this is the first permanent installation of the security devices. Schiphol officials are making the body scanners optional, allowing passengers to submit to the 3-scond scans in lieu of waiting in long security lines or being frisked by security personnel.

The "security scan" system uses a short blast of ultrahigh frequency radio waves to reveal the contours of the traveler. According to the airport officials, the person steps into the phone booth-like device and assumes what is known as the "ballerina position," with both arms up in the air.

While many consider the machines to be a safety improvement over X-ray scanners, and a better alternative to conventional strip searches, others feel the head-to-toe scans are an invasion of privacy. According to Reuters, Schiphol's screeners will view the images in a room off-limits to other passengers, and the images will be destroyed after each passenger is screened. Source...