The aviation industry has unveiled a new airport security system that uses iris scanners and other devices to move passengers through checkpoints more quickly.

The system was demonstrated Tuesday at the annual meeting of the International Air Transport Association in Singapore. Data obtained in an eye scan at an automated checkpoint is matched with information built into the passenger's passport.

Passengers then walk through a 7-meter-long tunnel equipped with an X-ray device, shoe and liquid scanners, and an explosives detector, without having to empty bags or remove any items of clothing.

The IATA says the new system would place travelers into different risk categories receiving varying levels of attention.

Frequent fliers could become designated as “known travelers” and not have to face the lengthy screening process, while the majority of passengers would be considered “normal travelers.” Those considered a high risk would have to pass through an enhanced set of tunnels.

Ken Dunlap, the association's global director for security and travel facilitation, says the system should be in place within five to seven years.

Many air passengers have been frustrated by increasingly intrusive security measures, such as such as having to remove their shoes or being subjected to invasive body searches.