Manchester Airport to roll out contactless passport system

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 12 Oct, 23:31 · Archive

Manchester Airport is introducing a contactless eGate system that uses facial recognition instead of requiring passengers to insert their passport.

UK airports including Manchester are rolling out a new contactless eGate system that uses facial recognition technology to speed up passenger arrivals. The phased rollout began at East Midlands Airport on 6 October, initially for British citizens, with the technology expected to be introduced at all UK airports by early 2027. The new system will come into force at Manchester Airport by early next year, though an official date has not yet been confirmed.

Under the new system, passengers approach the eGate and have their photograph taken. The system compares the live image with verified immigration, travel and passport information, and if the checks are completed successfully, the gate opens automatically and the passenger can walk through without presenting their passport to the machine. Testing has shown the contactless system can be up to 25% faster than using a passport on an eGate.

Passengers must still carry their passport as it remains a vital travel document. If further checks are needed, passengers may be asked to put their passport on the eGate reader or speak to a Border Force officer. Border Force officers will continue to monitor the eGates and provide assistance where needed. The Home Office says the facial technology verifies a passenger's identity before the UK's immigration and security checks are completed.

How it is being reported

• New passport rules implemented for all passengers at Manchester AirportMillions of passengers arriving at Manchester Airport will use a new eGate system that doesn't require a passport.NW Evening Mail · 12 Oct, 23:01
• New passport rules implemented for all passengers at Manchester AirportMillions of passengers arriving at Manchester Airport will use a new eGate system that doesn't require a passport.Westmorland Gazette · 12 Oct, 23:01

In this story: Manchester Airport · East Midlands Airport · Home Office · Border Force

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