A human X-ray machine which produces “naked” images of passengers is being trialled at Manchester Airport. The scanner can spot any hidden weapons or explosives but also shows up breast inserts, false limbs, piercings, and an outline of people’s genitals.

Passengers are currently able to refuse to undergo the virtual strip search at Terminal 2, opting instead for the conventional human pat down search.
Manchester Airport has stressed that the images are not pornographic and will be destroyed straight away.

Sarah Barrett, head of customer experience at the airport, told the BBC that most passengers did not like the traditional “pat down” search. The benefit for passengers is that they will no longer have to remove their coats, shoes and belts as they go through security checks. Ms Barrett added: “This scanner completely takes away the hassle of needing to undress.

The UK’s Department for Transport will decide whether to install them permanently in about a year’s time.