Date Published: 22/01/2024
No passport, no problem: First paperless airline launches in Spain
Several airports in Spain will use facial recognition in lieu of ID and boarding passes
Boarding a flight has become a seamless experience thanks to cutting-edge innovation and biometric technology. Spanish airline Vueling has introduced voluntary facial recognition at select airports, streamlining the process for passengers and becoming the first carrier in Spain to allow travellers to board without a passport or even a ticket.
The technology has already been implemented at Barcelona-El Prat, Madrid-Barajas, Palma de Mallorca, Menorca, and Ibiza airports, with plans to expand to Tenerife North and Gran Canaria in the next few weeks.
How does it work?
In the very near future, industry experts believe biometrics will become the norm for travel, revolutionising the way we move through airports. Vueling is at the forefront of this shift in Europe, introducing its groundbreaking facial recognition system that enables passengers to complete their journey without ever having to show their documents or boarding pass.
This innovative approach not only speeds up the process but also enhances security from the moment of checking in for a flight, whether this is done online through the airline’s app or at the airport desk, right the way through until the passenger boards their flight.
Initially, biometrics will be available at security checkpoints and designated boarding gates for both domestic and international flights, subject to availability.
How can passengers sign up for the biometric system?
Vueling customers only need to register once for the biometric system. For future flights, they can simply activate facial recognition after checking in via 'Manage your reservation' tab on the website or app.
Moreover, the airline has seamlessly integrated biometric technology into its application, enabling passengers to identify themselves just once from anywhere and then proceed directly to their gate without needing to show their boarding pass or identification again.
With this groundbreaking approach, Vueling promises passengers a smooth and hassle-free travel experience, keeping their hands free and their minds at ease.
In other news: Mid-air brawl forces UK flight to Spain to divert
Image: Freepik
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