As the world strives for better connectivity, airports are trying to revolutionize the travel experience by eliminating the requirement to show a passport at checkpoints.
One way international hubs can achieve this is by upgrading their security systems to the most innovative alternatives, including the use of biometric technologies, reports VisaGuide.World.
Biometric security screening can be done using sensors that verify facial features and easily replace manual checks. Here’s a look at three airports that are driving the trend of travel without documents.
Changi Airport, Singapore
Singapore’s main hub is set to become the world’s first airport to use automated passenger screening systems.
The check-in process is carried out by verifying the authentication token, which makes it easier for passengers to travel as they no longer need to show tickets or passports. However, to enter abroad, travelers are required to carry their passport.
Changi Airport plans to launch the automated passenger screening system in 2024, with August being the first test month.
From August 2024, travellers will be able to enjoy passport-free immigration at Changi Airport. This is part of the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) plan to strengthen border security while improving the travel experience by digitalising border clearance.
Zayed International Airport, Abu Dhabi
Following the launch of its Smart Travel project, the airport in the United Arab Emirates has announced plans to eliminate passports, ID cards and even tickets by 2025.
According to CNN, the airport has partnered with the national government for this initiative and the aircraft is already being used for flights by partner airline Etihad.
We are expanding to nine touchpoints and that would be a world first. It is designed so that no pre-registration is required. Passengers will be automatically recognised and authenticated as they move through the airport, which will speed up the whole process significantly.
Heathrow Airport, UK
European airports are also making efforts to make travel easier. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has entered into a partnership with British Airways, whose headquarters are near Heathrow Airport.
A test flight was conducted from Heathrow to Rome, where test passengers carried their passport, visa and e-ticket in a digital wallet, also known as the W3C Verifiable Credential.
The innovative measure could also improve traffic at Heathrow Airport, which is one of the busiest airports in the world. According to VisaGuide’s ranking of the world’s most stressful airports, Heathrow ranks fifth with a score of 37.13 out of 52 – the record is held by London Gatwick Airport, also located in the UK.
In addition to the European airport, Hong Kong International Airport, Tokyo Narita, Tokyo Haneda and Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport have also introduced biometric terminals, although these are only valid at certain checkpoints as test measures.
