TSA scanners coming to more airports across the South

Hundreds of scanners already at airports... more on the way

Austin, Baton Rouge, Chattanooga, Knoxville and Tallahassee are among the 29 airports in the United States where the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is installing its controversial scanners which take images through travellers’ clothing. The TSA describes their invasive devices in glowing terms:

The machines will be deployed with new automated target recognition software designed to enhance privacy by eliminating passenger-specific images while improving throughput capabilities and streamlining the checkpoint screening process.”We remain committed to implementing technologies that strengthen passenger privacy while ensuring the highest level of security,” said TSA Administrator John S. Pistole. “In addition to improving the passenger experience at the checkpoint, advanced imaging technology continues to give us the greatest opportunity to detect and deter evolving threats to aviation.”
…In September 2011, TSA purchased 300 millimeter wave units, which are being deployed in the coming months. Currently, there are nearly 500 AIT units at 78 airports nationwide. President Obama’s fiscal 2011 budget included the purchase of 500 units, and the President’s fiscal 2012 budget requests funding for an additional 275 units.