At LHR they are conducting random experiements with a body scan machine. People are randomly selected to go through this process. I have found that if I am in the right hand queue and I catch their eye, I am almost always picked.

They do the scan and then put you and your belongings right to the front of the Fast Track queue so this seems to be the quickest way through security saving few mintes each time.

The last time I was scanned I asked if I could see the images. He called to his assistant who was hidden away to freeze my images and, after the scan, lead me round. No wonder his assistant was hidden away, it was quite a shock as I looked naked! The image was slightly 'lumpy' with a blur around what was skin and clothes and you only see a white outline and no facial features obviously. The only visible items were my belt buckle and trouser buttons. Its all very strange though.

Dress left?

You couldn't opt out? Last time I observed this version of the virtual strip search device at LHR passengers "selected" were still being given a choice not to submit to it.

I wasn't given a choice last July. I had no idea what was going on until after the scan was completed. I asked what the device did and the screener brought me around to take a look at the images. It was a good reminder as to why I don't have a full length mirror in the bathroom.

They were doing it last week but people could decline. They pulled the selected regular scan people outta the line just when there were 4-6 people ahead of then before the magnotometers.

MisterNice

You are able to decline but, if you do so, will be subject to a full pat down search. You will still go to the front of the queue as they need to make sure that you are searched but I believe they will also do a manual hand luggage check.

I think the image is displayed so that one looks, er, fluffier than in real life.

In fact, I'm sure that explains why I looked the way I did when I went through the scanner. Absolutely sure!