At Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), the future of secure and efficient travel is already here, thanks to the successful implementation of a state-of-the-art biometric screening technology at 25 gates across Terminal A. As one of the first airports in the United States to adopt this technology mandated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), PHL has set a standard for improving security while simultaneously enhancing passenger experience.
The biometric system aligns with PHL's strategy and vision of ensuring a safe environment for passengers, while also streamlining the boarding process. According to CBP, PHL’s early adoption and successful implementation of the system resulted in some of the highest rates of accurate identity matches in the country.
Bringing this transformative technology to life required high-level coordination and collaboration among multiple agencies and internal departments. The project involved close coordination with CBP, airline partners, and PHL's IT, Operations, Security, and Guest Experience teams. This collaboration was instrumental in the successful completion of the project within a six-month duration to 25 gates across Terminal A - amounting to a total of 50 biometric units - all without interruption to daily operations.
The biometric screening technology has proven to be a game-changer in improving the overall passenger experience. Implemented with the help of SITA and NEC, both leading industry vendors, portions of the system have been operational since October 2022 and received positive feedback. Not only does the technology provide enhanced security, but it also significantly reduces the wait time at gates, contributing to a seamless travel experience. As biometric technology expands to other PHL gates in the future, more passengers will benefit from these enhancements.
PHL is proud to lead the way in secure, efficient, and passenger-focused travel. The successful implementation of biometric screening technology is not just about compliance; it's about making every journey better. And as the positive feedback continues to pour in, it's clear that PHL's pioneering spirit is reaping rewards.
Watch the video below to learn more about the biometrics exit boarding process.
