Passengers have right not to be blown up

Re: Airport security.

“Advanced checkpoint screening devices are available. They use so-called millimeter waves to create an image of a passenger's body, so officers can see under clothing to determine if a weapon or explosive has been hidden.

“Security officers, in a private area, review the images, which are not stored. Privacy advocates are against the use of this equipment. Legislation is pending in the House that would prohibit its use for routine passenger screening in order to protect privacy.” (New York Times, Dec. 28)

The Times reported that only 40 of these machines have been installed at only 19 U.S. airports. Amsterdam's airport has 15 of these machines, more than just about any other airport in the world, but an official there said Sunday that they are prohibited from using them on passengers going to the United States.

What about the passenger's right not to

be blown up during flight?

Birgit Brun Coffman

Iowa City