The new full body scanner has given Thunder Bay frequent fliers another option while checking through security.
The single millimeter wave scanner was up and running Monday at the Thunder Bay International Airport. The scanner is an option for passengers who are randomly selected for a second round of searching.
Security can also select passengers for the additional screening if they have cause do to so.
But the option still remains that passengers can request to have the traditional physical search.
The cost for the scanner was $250,000, which included installation and training for staff.
Canadian Air Transport Security Authority spokesman Matt Larocque said they have completed studies that show 75 per cent of travelers are comfortable with the scanner.
“They’re operational and passengers should be able to use it,” Larocque said.
“We noticed when given the choice, more than 90 per cent of passengers will choose the full body scanners. They were well received and there are some reasons for that. The process is faster and most passengers don’t like to be searched.”
CATSA first introduced the body scanners in January 2011 at major airports, such as Pearson International in Toronto, and airports with connecting flights to the United States.
Larocque said they are close to having the scanners at all airports.
Thunder Bay International Airport CEO Scott McFadden said the scanners have been at the airport for the past few months but they had to wait until staff members were trained before installing the machines.
He said the scanner was also put in place to help create more appeal for airliners that travel to the United States to come to Thunder Bay.
One passenger who spoke with Tbnewswatch.com said she’s happy that the airport installed the scanner.
Michelle McColl, a labour relations officer for Ontario Nurses Association, usually makes the trip to Toronto on a weekly basis. She said she liked having the full body scanner because it will cut down on waiting in line at the checkpoint.
“I’d prefer to have the scanner than be touched,” McColl said.
“Anything that speeds up the security process is a bonus. I’m not concerned about privacy I just want to get on the plane and go to work and come home safely. I’m in favour of anything that speeds up the security process.”
While being a frequent flier, she said there are some disadvantages such as having to go through an scanner often but it’s all about weighing out the options when making a living.
