U.S. airports are poised to implement touchless biometric identification technologies, with advancements toward complete digital journeys for travelers expected within the next decade. Key players, including Idemia North America and various airlines, are focusing on facilitating fast and secure airport processes through biometric verification, while navigating challenges related to funding, privacy, and procedural changes.
The implementation of biometric identification technology at U.S. airports is set to advance significantly over the next few years, leading to touchless travel for passengers. Donnie Scott, CEO of Idemia North America, indicates that some airports may start to offer hands-free experiences to TSA PreCheck travelers within two to five years, with broader adoption expected over the following decade. This enhanced travel experience will encompass digital identity checks at various stages, including bag drop-off, security screening, and boarding gates.
Currently, Global Entry members can enjoy a hands-free return to the U.S., utilizing automated kiosks for biometric verification instead of conventional passport checks. The TSA is expanding its touchless screening initiatives, collaborating with airlines like Delta and United, and anticipates broader participation from American and Alaska Airlines in the near future, although these services are initially restricted to PreCheck participants.
TSA’s touchless ID verification can significantly reduce processing times at security checks, averaging only eight seconds per passenger, compared to the manual verification lasting 18-20 seconds. Since its inception in 2021, around six million travelers have utilized these touchless lanes. Despite the technological feasibility, challenges remain in scaling due to operational adjustments, training needs, funding restraints, and political opposition, particularly from privacy advocates.
Recent surveys indicate strong public support for biometric technology in airport settings, with 79% of air travelers favoring its use at TSA checkpoints. Alaska Airlines is leading the charge toward biometric-enabled services, hoping to roll out touchless international check-in and bag drop services soon. Mobile ID verification is also on the horizon, with 12 states currently issuing digital IDs accepted by the TSA.
As biometric technology continues to evolve, the implications for travel efficiency and security at U.S. airports become increasingly apparent. The integration of touchless identity verification systems aims to streamline and enhance the airport experience for travelers. This shift reflects advancements in automation and passenger processing, addressing growing demands for speedy and secure air travel. Stakeholders in the aviation sector, including airlines and government agencies, are adapting to this technological evolution, albeit with considerations around funding and privacy concerns.
The expected rollout of biometric technology at U.S. airports marks a significant shift towards enhancing travel efficiency via touchless identification systems. While technology availability holds promising efficiency gains, deployment challenges remain in the form of procedural adjustments, funding limitations, and privacy advocacy. The collective push from airlines and industry stakeholders illustrates a strong public endorsement for biometrics, setting the stage for a transformative airport experience by the late 2020s.
Original Source: www.phocuswire.com
