Russia Plans to Implement Lie Detector Tests For Airline Passengers

Travel Blog  •  Michael Yessis  •  04.07.06 | 1:52 PM ET

A lie detector system could be in use at Moscow’s Domodedovo airport by July, according to Adrian Blomfield’s story in the Telegraph. Travelers’ voices will be analyzed for stresses as they respond to four questions. Blomfield writes: “The first is for full identity; the second, unnerving in its Soviet-style abruptness, demands: ‘Have you ever lied to the authorities?’ It then asks whether either weapons or narcotics are being carried.”

The makers of the lie detector claim a 98 percent accuracy rate, which shouldn’t comfort anyone. Political Animal Kevin Drum says he’ll be avoiding Russia in 2006. 

I realize that Russia is now officially our warmest and dearest friend, but can I just say that this news does not increase my eagerness to visit the land of Darkness at Noon? The prospect of “more rigorous interrogation” doesn’t reassure my already jangled nerves, and 98% accuracy doesn’t seem like very good odds. What’s more, the article doesn’t say what happens if you fail. (Or what happens if you answer Yes to the question about lying to authorities.) I think I’ll pass on the Hermitage this year.”

Tags: Air Travel, Travel and Security, Tres Loco, Europe, Russia, Moscow, News and Briefs

Michael Yessis

Michael Yessis is the cofounder and coeditor of World Hum.


1 Comment for Russia Plans to Implement Lie Detector Tests For Airline Passengers

TambourineMan 04.11.06 | 12:04 AM ET

Oh brother, I’m with Mr. Drum on this one.

What’s next? Sodium Pentothol injections at LAX?

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