Travelers flying out of Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport can soon expect a faster check-in process. Starting next year, the airport will introduce a “Smart Travel ” project, using artificial intelligence (AI) and facial recognition to streamline procedures.
By 2025, passengers may no longer need boarding passes. The new biometric system will verify identities using data from the UAE’s Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security. This means a quicker journey through security checkpoints.
Etihad Airways, the UAE’s national carrier, has already adopted similar technology . Their biometric systems allow self-service for baggage drop-off and check-ins. Soon, passengers won’t need to present a boarding pass before going on the plane. Five more airlines at the airport will also adopt this technology.
The key benefit is speed. A process that typically takes 25 seconds will soon take just seven seconds, which will significantly reduce wait times .
Besides convenience, the project will boost airline efficiency and reduce the need for costly infrastructure expansions. It will also improve fraud detection, thereby enhancing security.
Zayed International Airport is set to become one of the first in the world to offer a document-free travel experience, setting a new standard in global air travel.
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