A web flattening system for holding a filmstrip (web) or filmstrip and paper carrier combination (web) against the aperture of a linear array scanner. The foregoing is accomplished by providing: a platen having at least two orifices over which the bottom surface of a web moves; a plate that is positioned above the top surface of the web and the platen so that the bottom surface of the web will be positioned in close proximity to the orifices; and means for supplying a high velocity gas stream to the orifices so that a pressure differential will exist between the top and bottom surfaces of the web; whereby the pressure differential will push the bottom surface of the web towards the orifices and a thin layer of gas will form between the bottom surface of the web and the platen.
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