Originally Posted by
HSVTSO Dean
From what I understand about the thing, which I was told HSV probably won't be getting, Fido isn't an acronym for anything. It is, quite literally, named that because it's supposed to be a replacement for a bomb-sniffing dog. It's supposed to be equal to, or perhaps more sensitive than, a dog's nose in detecting explosives.
Other than that, I can't say I know too much about it.
A search without consent?
Maybe, maybe not. I'm not too keen on the legal capabilities of it, but from what I understand - mixed with a healthy dose of speculation - the implied consent goes beyond the checkpoint area to cover the whole of the sterile area beyond the checkpoint. It's mentioned under those little signs all over the place (different airport mileage may vary, obviously) that state carry-on baggage can be searched at any time. Ergo, by simply being in there, you have given consent for the search.
I'm of the impression that these gizmos are being used BEFORE the sterile area.