AMS experience
#16
Original Poster




Join Date: Dec 2005
Location: Japan
Programs: UA 1MM
Posts: 5,611
#17
Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: FKB
Programs: Skymiles - FO
Posts: 207
As far as I know, the Dutch use the L3 MM-Wave scanners with ATR, and no goon-in-the-box.
http://www.schiphol.nl/Travellers/At...curityScan.htm
If this is true, nobody should have a reason to avoid them, even though they may be ineffective.
More here:
http://www.schiphol.nl/InDeSamenlevi...security-scan/
http://www.schiphol.nl/Travellers/At...curityScan.htm
If this is true, nobody should have a reason to avoid them, even though they may be ineffective.
More here:
http://www.schiphol.nl/InDeSamenlevi...security-scan/
I admit I tried it once at AMS, since these machines are the unique combination of MMW and ATD. However like many people I got a false positive and got molested anyway.
Now I opt out. First time I got an explanation of how the machine works, which I dismissed and got a pat-down afterwords. The next time we went through a "yes you have to...no I don't" exchange, but they relented and patted me down without the need to call a supervisor. Just be firm in opting out and you can get through.
#18
Join Date: Mar 2009
Location: BOS/YYZ
Programs: Marriott LT Plat by proxy, Sephora VIB, I have a low AA FF#...
Posts: 951
I flew through AMS last week and while the MMW machine was sitting there, I only saw one person use it. I certainly didn't, though I did get a pat-down because I was wearing a long skirt.
#19
A FlyerTalk Posting Legend




Join Date: Jun 2005
Posts: 72,177
Now the Dutch have budged. Before entering the boarding area for my UA flight to IAD we had to go through the obligatory questioning and were released to have our belongings scanned. However, instead of going through the regular metal detector, to my surprise that they now have a body scanner working on the basis of "harmless millimetre waves" ( quotes the provided brochure ). I was not sure about the machine and kept asking if i could opt out. It was not a language problem, they understood and spoke good English, but they refused and I had to go through the machine, arms up resigning myself to the fact that I had no choice, like at LHR. After passing they gave me the brochure which clearly states "....for now, the use of the Security Scan is not obligatory"
I want to ask : When is all of this nonsense going to end? But sadly, I already know the answer.
I want to ask : When is all of this nonsense going to end? But sadly, I already know the answer.
#20
Join Date: Feb 2010
Posts: 733
For the third time I am requesting that you point me to the peer-reviewed scientific study describing the long-term human health effects of these machines. Just one.
Thanks.
#21
Join Date: Nov 2010
Location: FKB
Programs: Skymiles - FO
Posts: 207
There is no failure on the part of scientists in terms of "studying" millimeter waves - we know how they work, we know what they do. Those more knowledgeable than I have taken much of their time posting a lot of information on this previously, just use the search button and you'll find it soon enough. I understand their frustration and respect their right not to jump in again, since no matter what knowledge they attempt to convey, someone can always jump in and say "no, you can't prove it the way that I want you to..." It takes far less time and effort to spread fear of the unknown than to educate people.
#22
Join Date: Dec 2010
Location: Monterey Bay Area
Programs: Independent Libertarian
Posts: 326
MMW seems OK
I like the MMW much better than the Backscatter X-rays but after looking at the stick figure on the video link I don't understand why arms must be raised in "surrender pose". It seems that there is plenty of room to be scanned with the arms slightly spread by the waist. It seems I will always need to opt out as both rotator cuffs are worn out. I can put my arms up but I can't keep my arms up.Anyone have thoughts regarding this?

