Abu Dhabi Airports has announced the launch of the Biometric Smart Travel project, which promises to radically change the check-in process. Now passengers will be able to complete all pre-flight procedures in just seven seconds, reports russianemirates.com.
The new system covers the entire range of airport services: from automatic check-in and baggage drop-off to electronic gates and boarding gates. This will permit travelers to do without presenting documents and direct contact with airport staff.
The technology is based on the use of databases from the UAE Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP). The system instantly authenticates passengers using biometric data.
The project has already been partially implemented at the new terminal at Zayed International Airport, where Abu Dhabi Airports, together with Etihad Airways, introduced biometric systems in November 2023. Work is currently underway to expand the project to five other airlines.
The plan is to cover all security and operational locations by 2025, according to Andrew Murphy, the airport's chief information officer. Saeed Saif Al Khaili, CEO of ICP, noted that the new system reduces passenger service time from 25 to 7 seconds by integrating ticket and document verification into a single process.
Future phases of the project include the implementation of biometric systems in the Etihad Airways lounge and duty free shops, making travel through Abu Dhabi Airport even more comfortable and efficient.