British Airways trials biometrics
Facial recognition technology has been with us for some time now. We can unlock our phones and tablets with it. Now British Airways are trialling the technology on their international flights.
Customers who sign up to the trial can scan their face, passport and boarding pass at home using their smartphone. This information will be held securely for when they arrive at the airport.
At the airport
Once participants arrive at the airport state-of-the-art smart cameras will verify their identity in less than three seconds continue through the airport with out the need to show a passport until they reach their destination.
The trial is currently taking place in Terminal 5 at London Heathrow Airport. and only on British Airways flights to Malaga (AGP), Spain.
A first for British Airways
David Breeze, Operations Transformation Manager for British Airways, said:
“Not only is this the first time that our customers have been able to register their biometric information at home, but it’s the first time they can use it for British Airways’ international flights. This is a secure and efficient tool that makes for a smarter and smoother airport experience, which will reduce the time it takes us to board aircraft”
Customers who opt-in will be invited to make use of the Fast-Track security lane and will receive complimentary priority boarding.
Biometrics. What’s your opinion?
British Airways have used biometric technology before on domestic flights. Is the use of facial recognition an invasion of privacy? Will it be used beyond the check-in that it was intended for? Will increase our safety and security and is the trade-off worth it?
What is your opinion on the use of such technology? Give your answers in the comments section below.
Visit British Airways – ba.com
All photographs in this blog are used with the permission of British Airways who hold the copyright.
