Recent discussions on the subject of airport security reminded me of an email I received from a friend in early 2003. The email (more of which later) wasn't a serious one, but was in the aftermath of the attack which turned the World Trade Center in New York into two very large smouldering scrap heaps.
It seems that the issue is once again gaining political attention following security lapses which allowed the
"underpants bomber" to board a plane with his explosives stuffed into his
Y-fronts. As security has improved, it seems that terrorist tactics and methods have also evolved. Politicians are demanding use of leading-edge intrusive technologies, such as the
Millimeter wave scanner, which has increased fears for
violation of privacy and civil liberties. Ironically, Amsterdam leads the way by having adopted such scanners at Schipol in 2007. These machines are already being installed at all major airports in the United States and the UK; they are being rolled in at other major airports around the world.
Hong Kong has announced that all passengers would be 'patted down' (subject to full-body searches) from now on;
according to the press, passengers dislike the intrusion, but "understand the situation." However, I question whether people would "understand" so well once they realise the implications of the full-body scan? My friend's email contained a link to a
spoof animation – one which is remarkably "close to the bone". (
note:Shockwave is required for your browser to view it). I wonder if guards will be scrapping with each other to man the security monitors when
Brad and Angie pass through airport security– having this job when such good-looking people step through the scanner could be better than looking at skin mags all day!
But seriously, this is just one increase in intrusion we have to experience when travelling by air these days. I hope that the authorities realise they will kill air travel if airlines demand cavity searches in future.
