JFK Airport, New York

A new body scan system has been installed at JFK Airport, New York, which allows airport screeners to peer beneath passengers’ clothing in search of secreted weapons.

However, those passengers who are required to undergo additional screening have the choice of entering the machine, or opting for a body pat-down.

The machines – known as millimetre wave scanners – produce a 3D image of the body, showing some degree of detail.

The images are only seen by a security worker in a secluded room, who has no contact with the person being examined.

Faces are obscured automatically and the images are not archived – even if they do show the presence of a hidden weapon.

Passengers using the scanners enter them and raise their arms. The scans themselves last around 15 seconds.

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