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Emirates Moves to Biometric Processing

Emirates is gearing up to launch the world’s first “biometric path” at Dubai International Airport, allowing travelers to check in, complete immigration formalities, enter the Emirates Lounge and board flights simply by strolling through the airport.

Using a mix of facial and iris recognition, the equipment has already been installed at Emirates Terminal 3 at select check-in counters, at the Emirates Lounge in Concourse B for premium passengers and at select boarding gates.

Trials for the Smart Tunnel were launched earlier this month. Passengers walk through the “tunnel” and are cleared by immigration authorities without human intervention or the need for a physical passport stamp. Once its internal tests are completed, Emirates will launch trials for biometric processing at the other key customer points at the airport – check-in, lounge and boarding gate – and subsequently at transit counters/gates, and for its chauffeur drive services.

By Dan Booth