The TSA is facing backlash for the new security measures (Photo courtesy of AP).

Tomorrow is the one of the largest air travel day of the year, second only to the Sunday after Thanksgiving.  Travelers may be more inconvenienced than usual at airports, as this is the first major traveling holiday since the Transportation Security Administration introduced two new controversial passenger screening initiatives: full body scans and physical pat downs. 

The screening techniques have stirred debate about the balance between personal freedom and passenger security.

During this busy traveling season, some groups still err on the side of personal liberties.  A movement is brewing called National Opt-Out Day, in which air passengers will refuse to participate in the new invasive procedures.

The point of Opt-Out Day is to send a message to lawmakers to change the TSA guidelines. 

“We have a right to privacy and buying a plane ticket should not mean that we’re guilty until proven innocent,” the Opt-Out website argues.  “This day is needed because many people do not understand what they consent to when choosing to fly.”

Others worry the opt-outers will lead to longer lines and more hassle on an already hectic day.

The full body scanners, also known as the Advanced Imaging Technology units, are able to produce a full, semi-nude image of a passenger.  The scanners are a result of last year’s Underwear Bomber, who hid explosives in his underwear before boarding a plane last Christmas.

Though TSA says they’re completely harmless, some passengers liken it to a virtual strip search.  The scanners are currently in 70 airports across the US.

The TSA said if the technology makes travelers uncomfortable, they can opt out – but only if they consent to a physical pat down - but many passengers are finding those too invasive.

An employee from ABC news said her pat down “was basically worse than going to the gynecologist” and it was embarrassing, demeaning and inappropriate, reports New Jersey Newsroom.

In fact, since the pat downs started, the American Civil Liberties Union has received more than 600 complaints in three weeks telling tails of inappropriate behavior at airport security.

Those conducting the pat downs also have trouble with the new guidelines.  Seventeen airport security staff members have spoken out to express their disgust at the TSA policy, too, reports Mail Online.

One staff member said the pat-downs were worse for him than the passenger, saying he daily has to deal with many strangers who “have a problem understanding what personal hygiene is.”

The staff also said they were subject to a high level of personal abuse while carrying out the pat-downs.

During these debates, the airline companies have stayed on the sidelines.  This is a battle between the leisure travelers and the government and largely doesn’t affect the high-paying business travelers airlines depend on, reports Reuters.

Most security experts are speculating that the policy as is will not stay in place indefinitely.  For example, one scientist is recommending technology that will distort the nude images of passangers, much like a funhouse mirror, reports the Washington Posts.

This weekend, however, air travelers should expect some delays.