LEE COUNTY, Fla.- Full body scanners are landing at Southwest Florida International Airport.

One advanced imaging technology scanner is currently in use, and five more are on the way.
     
"Our mission is to keep the traveling public safe, and the use of advanced imaging technology is mitigating these evolving threats," said RSW Federal Security Director Robert Cohen.

Unlike traditional metal detectors, the millimeter wave technology used in these devices can also scan for non-metallic threats concealed under clothing.

"Weapons, explosives, and components of explosives," Cohen said. "That's how good this AIT machine is."

The resulting image is modest and generic.

"This software does not create a passenger specific image. The computer generated outline is the same for all passengers," Cohen explained.

If no threat is detected the screen will show an "OK" message without a body outline.


Walking through the scanner is optional, but for passengers who opt out, they will be submitted to additional screening measures, including a thorough pat down.

For the most part, passengers are accepting of the new technology, which is now in place at roughly 140 airports across the country.
 
"My sense is it will give more opportunity to catch things what will be missed otherwise," said Mike Sermersheim as he waited at the security line at Concourse C. "so, I think it's a good thing."

"I'd rather feel safe, than unsafe while flying on a plane, so i'm pretty happy with it," Kyle Hayes said as he waited for his flight to Atlanta.

TSA officials say the machine is perfectly safe, even for children and pregnant women. The device emits energy 1000 times less than international limits and guidelines.

Security officials say it will also cut down on wait times a check-points.