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Government Support for Airport Body Scanners

The Finnish government has given its backing to the use of body scanners at airports. However, ministers say it is important the EU Commission examines their possible effect on health, passenger privacy and data protection.

Henkilöskannerilla otettu kuva.
Image: YLE

The issue was discussed on Friday by the Cabinet Committee on European Affairs.

A decision is expected by the EU on the use of body scanners in the near future.

Scanners clearly show the body through clothes and reveal any hidden objects. They also show genitalia, breast implants and intimate piercings.

Their introduction has been prompted following a failed attempt to detonate explosives on a plane flying over the U.S. on Christmas Day.

Earlier this week, Corporate Security Director, Jyri Vikström of the airport authority Finavia welcomed the introduction of scanners if approved by the European parliament. The scanners could be installed at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport by next spring.

Sources: YLE