A machine which scans peoples’ eyes is the latest technology to go on trial at a British airport as a potential security aid. The device being tested at Manchester Airport scans a passenger’s iris at check in and then keeps track of that person around the airport. As well as an aid in the fight against terrorists the new device could help to speed up the time it takes to complete the necessary security checks at an airport.

Those who volunteer to get involved in the testing of the new scanner will have their eye rescanned when they reach security. Because it is the person who is scanned and not the ticket or boarding pass, officials hope the system will help in preventing criminals from swapping airline tickets while at the airport.

According to the company developing the new scanner, Human Recognition Systems, the trials so far have been extremely successful. Unlike the airports e-gates which require a passenger to stand still while the eyes are scanned, the new machine can do it while a person is moving.

Currently passengers are being asked to walk at a normal pace through the demonstration scanner. Once through the device a passenger is able to look at a screen to see if the iris scanner has correctly identified them. Manchester Airport bosses have been keen to point out that the trial, due to last for two weeks, is not replacing any of the usual security measures at the airport.

Passengers are also being told that they do not have to take part in the trial.