Face recognition at the airport: The new way for stress -free check in!

Face recognition at the airport: The new way for stress -free check in!

The future of travel at the airport could be revolutionized by the introduction of facial recognition technology. According to OE24 it will soon be possible to check without a boarding ticket or passport. The new system, developed by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), aims to simplify the check -in process and accelerate the processes at the airport. Travelers could store their biometric views of views in an app and would then be able to identify through a facial scan at the airport.

The process stipulates that a digital ticket is downloaded after the flight booking. This is done in conjunction with an encrypted digital file that contains personal information and a biometric face picture. This data is to be saved on modern passports with chips, smartphones or smartwatches. Airport operators and some airlines have already carried out tests of this method, supported by Amadeus, which provides booking systems for airlines.

data protection for biometric data

However, the increasing use of facial recognition technology also raises data protection questions. The European Data Protection Committee (EDSA) has in a statement [ Edpb ] should have the greatest possible control over your biometric data. In the opinion, it is pointed out that biometric data represent particularly sensitive information that may not be processed easily. The EDSA therefore demands alternative, less intrusive methods to optimize passenger flow.

Special attention applies to the risks associated with the processing of this data, including identity fraud and discrimination. The opinion also analyzes how the implementation of facial recognition is compatible with the principles of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Central storage of biometric data without control by the individuals is considered non-GDPR. The EDSA has made it clear that data should either be saved locally on the users' devices or centrally secured, whereby the encryption key remains in the hands of those affected.

future developments

While the new facial recognition system is not yet used nationwide, tests that have already been carried out by various airlines show that a change is possible in the near future. The long -term goal is to develop a uniform standard for international air traffic. In this context, the question also arises of the legal framework of these technologies.

The EDSA will continue to stimulate national studies on data protection violations and has made it clear that participation in such technologies should be based on active consent of travelers in order to ensure the protection of personal data. This underlines the high priority that is granted data protection in the development of these new technologies. Data protection ticker must ensure that processing is carried out in accordance with the GDPR.