Philadelphia International Airport’s partners recently launched two programs to make it easier and faster for travelers to move through security and international arrivals. Touchless TSA PreCheck launched in December, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP) rolled out in January.   

Smoother international arrivals

EPP uses facial comparison and biometric technology to offer U.S. citizens a touchless and seamless experience when arriving from international trips.  When travelers reach the CBP inspection area, a camera captures their photo and matches it to images CBP already has on file, such as a passport photo. Within seconds, the system confirms identity, runs security checks, and creates a travel record. Passengers who prefer not to use EPP can simply let a CBP officer know and go through the standard inspection process instead. 

EPP is now available at 15 airports across the country. Since its initial launch in August 2025, wait times for U.S. citizens have dropped by nearly 25 percent.  

“By implementing enhanced passenger processing systems, PHL aims to improve efficiency and guests’ overall travel experience,” said Airport Operations Superintendent Steven Belton. "We have capacity for six EPP stations, which CBP manages depending on passenger load need. This will allow PHL to handle the growing passenger volumes more effectively during the events being held in 2026 and beyond. The improvements will also enhance safety, minimize congestion, and support a more seamless connection for international travelers.” 

The Department of Aviation's Information Technology team worked closely with CBP to implement EPP. The new system required upgrades to Wi-Fi, technology, and airport infrastructure to support the new process. The IT Department procured the necessary equipment and software and installed secure Wi-Fi in Customs to ensure the safe and reliable operation of EPP.  

"Our IT team is proud to have collaborated closely with CBP to implement EPP. This partnership allowed us to leverage our expertise in infrastructure and technology with CBP's valuable insights and guidance, resulting in a seamless and innovative solution that enhances the passenger experience," said Vice President of IT Systems & Infrastructure, Camille Tomlin. 

Touchless PreCheck

Guests with TSA PreCheck can also take advantage of a new touchless technology when going through the security checkpoints for Terminals A-West, A-East, C, D/E and F. TSA PreCheck Touchless ID allows eligible travelers to move through security quicker without needing to show a boarding pass or ID. Touchless ID is designed to expedite TSA screening by using facial comparison technology. When eligible TSA PreCheck passengers check in for their flights, they can opt-in to use Touchless ID, which allows them to skip the ID verification step. Upon arrival at PHL’s Touchless ID line, the passenger will need to have their picture taken and once approved, they can proceed to the screening area. Currently, Touchless ID is only available for passengers flying on American, Delta, United, Southwest, and Alaska airlines.  

 "American Airlines is committed to enhancing every aspect of the customer experience at PHL as we continuously find new ways to streamline the travel journey and offer customers a hands-free process from the start," said Lakshman Amaranayaka, Vice President of American Airlines’ PHL Operations. "We're extremely thankful for our strong partnerships with the Philadelphia Department of Aviation, TSA, and CBP. Together we're working to make security checkpoints faster with Touchless ID and continuing to streamline the arrival process with EPP. Each of these new technologies are making a difference to create a more enjoyable travel experience."