Facial Recognition System
By Staff Writer, Halal Incorp
UK Considering Facial Recognition to Replace Passports at Airport E-Gates
The days of frantic passport searches upon arrival in the UK may soon be a thing of the past. The government’s borders agency is reportedly exploring plans to replace the traditional presentation of passports with facial recognition technology at entry points.
Facial Recognition System
Phil Douglas, the director general of Border Force, expressed his enthusiasm for the idea after being impressed by similar schemes in Australia and Dubai.
Recounting his experience with electronic travel authorization and smartphone-enabled passport chip reading, he emphasized the potential of creating an ‘intelligent border’ with more seamless facial recognition.
Facial Recognition System
Trials for this technology are anticipated to commence at airports later this year, with a hardware procurement process set to follow nationwide if successful, according to reports.
Douglas has been advocating for the benefits of biometrics and enhanced data security in border management, suggesting that the conventional paper passport is becoming obsolete.
During a conference in February 2023, Douglas envisioned a future with “completely frictionless borders” where traditional passports are unnecessary. He emphasized the existing technology’s capability to support such a transition, asserting that biometrics alone could suffice.
The director general highlighted the wealth of information already collected during passport applications, including biometric details of British and Irish travellers.
This data would enable authorities to have upfront knowledge about individuals, including their previous visits to the UK, compliance with immigration laws, and any records on security systems.
Douglas acknowledged potential reservations about individuals passing through borders without a physical passport, recognizing that the public and ministers may remain attached to traditional checks for some time.
However, a 2022 poll by the International Air Transport Association indicated that 75% of passengers worldwide would be willing to replace passports with biometric solutions.
As the UK explores the possibilities of a more technologically advanced border control system, the prospect of facial recognition replacing passports seems to be gaining momentum.
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