Emirates has officially launched an integrated ‘biometric path’ at Dubai International, enabling customers to experience a contactless travel journey through the airport.
The project was first announced in 2018, and was billed as a time-saving initiative for travellers, as well as providing the ability to locate and assist late passengers.
Of course the onset of Covid-19 has given the technology a new focus, reducing human interaction at check-in and immigration.
The carrier said that a mix of facial and iris recognition technology means Emirates passengers can now “check in for their flight, complete immigration formalities, enter the Emirates Lounge, and board their flights, simply by strolling through the airport”.
Biometric touchpoints have been installed at selected economy, business and first class check-in desks at Dubai International’s Terminal 3, as well as at boarding gates, the carrier’s lounge entrance in Concourse B, and within the ‘smart tunnel’ at immigration gates.
Emirates said that areas where biometric equipment are in operation will be “clearly marked”, adding that additional units will be installed at each touchpoint in the future.
Last month the airline introduced 16 self-service check-in and bag drop kiosks at Dubai International’s Terminal 3.
Emirates said that it is also the first carrier outside America to receive approval for biometric boarding from the US Customs Border Protection (CBP). Customers flying from Dubai to US destinations can now choose facial recognition technology at the departure gates.
Commenting on the news Adel Al Redha, Emirates’ chief operating officer, said:
“We have always focused on providing a great customer experience at any touchpoint and now it is more vital than before to make use of technology and implement products, and introduce processes that focuses not only on fast tracking customers, but more importantly on health and safety during their travel journey.
“The state-of-the-art, contactless biometric path is the latest in a series of initiatives we have introduced to make sure that travelling on Emirates is a seamless journey and gives customers added peace of mind.”
