Airports of Thailand (AOT) is set to launch an innovative biometric identification system at six key airports, aimed at expediting passenger identity verification to under two minutes. This initiative marks a significant step in enhancing the travel experience, making it more efficient and user-friendly.
Kerati Kijmanawat, the director of Airports of Thailand, highlighted AOT’s dedication to improving passenger convenience and streamlining airport operations. The Automated Biometric Identification System leverages advanced facial recognition technology, enabling quick and secure identification. After extensive development and rigorous testing, AOT expects the system to considerably reduce wait times across various service points at the airport.
The six airports that will implement this biometric technology
- Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
- Don Mueang International Airport (DMK)
- Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)
- Mae Fah Luang – Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI)
- Phuket International Airport (HKT)
- Hat Yai International Airport (HDY)
The biometric system will be available to domestic passengers starting 1 November 2024, with international travellers gaining access on 1 December 2024. Passengers will need to consent to the use of their biometric data to utilise this service.
Travellers can register for the biometric system during check-in using one of two methods:
- Check-in Counter: Passengers can inform airline staff at the check-in counter to register their facial data using the boarding pass reader (CUTE machine). This system will securely store their facial data and travel document information in a token format.
- Self-Service Check-in Kiosk (CUSS Machine): After completing check-in, passengers can select their airline, choose “Enrollment,” scan the barcode on their boarding pass, insert their passport or ID card, and complete the registration by scanning their face. The system will securely store the necessary data as a token.
Once registered, passengers will have consented to the use of their biometric data, allowing them to bypass the need to present their passport or boarding pass at various points, including automatic baggage drop machines (CUBD) and security checkpoints. This consent is valid for a single journey.
The biometric system is expected to revolutionise identity verification at airports, cutting average processing times from approximately five minutes to just two. While travellers may require some time to adapt to the new technology, the overall efficiency is anticipated to improve significantly.
Kirati expressed confidence that the biometric system is well-prepared to enhance the travel experience for all passengers. “Our goal is to provide quick and efficient service, allowing travellers to enjoy their time at the airport—whether that means exploring duty-free shops, savouring a meal, or simply relaxing before their flight,” he said.
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In addition to the biometric system, AOT has previously implemented the Common Use Passenger Processing System (CUPPS), which includes five key services designed to streamline operations:
- CUTE Machines: Boarding pass readers operated by airline staff.
- CUSS Machines: Self-service check-in kiosks for passenger convenience.
- CUBD Machines: Automatic baggage drop systems.
- PVS (Passenger Validation System): For secure verification of passenger identities.
- SBG (Self-Boarding Gate): For automated boarding processes.
These systems are designed to work together to enhance the overall passenger experience.
Looking ahead to the 2024/2025 winter season, AOT anticipates a substantial increase in flight activity, with a total of 370,239 flights scheduled across its six airports—representing a 22.1% rise from the previous year. This includes 222,780 international flights (up 33.1%) and 147,459 domestic flights (an 8.5% increase).
Additionally, the total number of passengers—both international and domestic—is projected to increase by 23%. The leading international routes bringing travellers into Thailand will be from China, Malaysia, India, Singapore, and Hong Kong. For the fiscal year 2025 (October 2024 – September 2025), AOT expects to serve over 129.97 million passengers across its six airports, an increase of 8.95%.
This development signals a new era of travel efficiency, positioning Thailand at the forefront of modern airport services.
