Airport Security Concerns Post Sept 11

In the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 attacks, the world has evaluated its immigration and security policies. The British government is looking into using biometric cards with passports. These cards would possibly contain fingerprints, iris scans and other personal information. A feasibility study has been conducted at Heathrow airport in London.

Virgin Atlantic Airways and British Airways are also conducting a trial that involves iris recognition at Heathrow airport. The trial is taking place in two terminals where transatlantic flights are operated. The iris scan is logged in to the immigration system. Upon arrival in the UK, if the iris scan is confirmed, the passenger is allowed to pass through immigration.

These security methods have been under intense debate since September 11, 2001. Some believe the security methods will serve as effective ways of trying to stop terrorist activity. Others are concerned that the collection of personal data presents a privacy issue for everyone. Issues of who will collect, store and monitor the data will have to be resolved prior to full implementation of any new biometric security methods.

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