Body Scanners Coming to Reno Airport

If you thought security hassles at Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO) couldn't get any worse, think again. RNO is on the short list of airports that will soon be receiving those body scanners you may have heard about. You know, the ones that peer under your clothes looking for concealed weapons and such by creating a clothes-free image of the person being scanned. The agency responsible for airport security, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) insists that the scanners are safe and that rules in place for their use strictly protect passenger privacy.

RNO is scheduled to receive the scanners this summer, but airport officials are balking. RNO spokesman Brian Kulpin said they want to wait for improved technology that will make the scanners smaller and less invasive. He also cited a lack of room for the bigger machines in the airport's narrow corridors and expressed concern for the comfort level of families and women passengers.

According to TSA spokesman Dwayne Baird, full-body scans are not mandatory. Passengers who do not wish to pass through the machines will be subject to alternative screening measures which include a pat down.

What do you think? Should these scanners be installed at RNO and other airports? Do we need this technology to enhance security or is it over the line by being too invasive?

Sources: Reno Gazette-Journal, Transportation Security Administration.

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