High-tech scanners will let passengers keep their shoes on at airport security gates
NEXT generation scanners will let passengers keep their shoes on at airport security gates.
Prototypes are likely to be ready for testing at departures within a year.
They are to be developed under a £1.8million initiative by the Department for Transport.
A step-on shoe-scanner to be produced in Derbyshire is among the systems to get backing.
It will create high-contrast images to be analysed by computers set up to detect threats.
Another walk-through system, being developed in Wales, will measure radiation levels.
It should allow passengers to keep their coats on. Ministers hope the new scanners will cut queues for security checks.
Airports began asking some passengers to take off footwear after shoe bomber Richard Reid was caught on a 2001 flight.
Aviation Minister Baroness Sugg said: "This latest £1.8million of funding invests in innovative projects that will ensure we are continuing to capitalise on pioneering research.
"The aim is to have a safer and smoother travel experience for air passengers.
"The safety of people travelling on all modes of transport is our top priority and the Future Aviation Security Solutions programme is just one example of the huge importance we place on the security of passengers."
Security Minister Ben Wallace said: "We are determined to harness the power of innovation and this ambitious programme will help us continue to use the best technologies as part of our aviation security."