Flying Through Security

By Jordan Johnson
Edited Dec. 1, 2010

Doane students who flew home this Thanksgiving break were confronted with the new controversial security procedures implemented by the Transport Security Agency.

The new measures include full body scans and more invasive body pat-downs. Screeners are now authorized to use the front of their hands to touch the areas around the breasts and groins, according to an article by the American Civil Liberties Union.
Senior John “Jeeves” Carvana flew to Chicago from Omaha over Thanksgiving break but said he didn’t experience the new procedures.

“I saw the big body x-ray thing and occasionally they had people going through it,” Carvana said. “Both there and back I didn’t have to go through the thing.”

The body scanners Carvana referred to were implemented by TSA in March 2010. The scanners use Advanced Imaging Technology to create a photograph image of a passenger. The image created reveals items concealed under clothing but also the physical features of the passenger without clothes.

Senior Jessie Stewart said she would feel uncomfortable with the scans and would prefer not to fly.

“They basically can see you naked, and I’m not comfortable with that,” Stewart said. “I’d rather take the train or drive than bare all for TSA.”

Stewart isn’t the only one uncomfortable with the body scans. Freshman Courtney Wood said she was highly uncomfortable with the body scans, but the pat-down alternative was just as embarrassing.

“It’s a little strange,” Wood said. “I wouldn’t choose either one but I would probably be more comfortable with the scanners.”

Despite negative news coverage, wide-spread criticism and even YouTube videos, TSA procedures have remained in place. According to the TSA Web site, they have implemented strict measures to protect passenger privacy while ensuring the safety of all who fly.

Those who wish to avoid the scans can go online and check the list of airports that have Advanced Imaging Technology systems. Also, creative solutions to the privacy concerns have been discovered. One such example is a new underwear that protects a passenger’s modesty during the scan through a radiation blocking panel.

Despite privacy concerns, Carvana said he understood the precaution and was willing to accept it.

“Honestly, if it means that my plane is going to get securely from once place to another,” Carvana said. “I would rather be a little bit uncomfortable for a few seconds than dead.”