Exciting news FaceBoarding Launches in Italy 2024
Although you can’t toss your passport just yet, facial recognition technology is laying the groundwork for a future without physical identity documents. For example, Milan Linate and Catania airports in Italy are currently testing FaceBoarding, a facial recognition system that allows travellers to pass through security without presenting their passport, ID, or boarding pass.
Here’s how FaceBoarding operates: after checking in (online or at the counter), travellers head to the FaceBoarding kiosk. They scan their identity document, boarding pass, and face. After this, they can proceed through dedicated security lines without needing to show their passport or boarding pass again.
However, this convenience is limited to passengers flying with ITA or SAS, the two airlines participating in the FaceBoarding trial. If you’re flying with another airline, you’ll still need to show your documents before boarding.
FaceBoarding Launches in Italy
Travellers can register for FaceBoarding for a single flight or for the entire trial period, which runs until December 2025. Registration is done at the FaceBoarding kiosk, but those who prefer traditional methods can still choose to travel that way. There’s no obligation to use FaceBoarding.
To further streamline the process, an app will be available in June 2024, allowing travellers to register from home. This adds a layer of convenience, making the travel experience even smoother.
FaceBoarding aims to reduce airport lines and speed up the entire airport process. Additionally, biometric-based identification enhances security by minimizing passport fraud. Airports and international train stations already use biometric data to expedite immigration checks. By capturing a facial image and matching it with the one on your passport, your identity is quickly and securely confirmed without a manual check from a border agent.
So, while this FaceBoarding launches in Italy is streamlining airport security checks, you still need to carry your passport or ID. For now, at least, don’t leave home without them!
