Stansted Airport to introduce contactless passport system

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 11 Oct, 17:43 · Archive

A contactless facial recognition system is being rolled out at UK airports, with Stansted receiving it by early 2027.

A new contactless system is being rolled out at UK airports, designed to speed up passenger arrivals while maintaining border security checks. Stansted Airport is expected to receive the technology by early 2027, following a phased rollout that began at East Midlands Airport on 6 October, initially for British citizens.

The system uses facial recognition technology. Passengers approach the eGate, have their photograph taken, and the system compares the live image with verified immigration, travel and passport information. If checks are completed successfully, the gate opens automatically. Testing has shown the contactless system can be up to 25% faster than using a passport on a traditional eGate.

The Home Office states that the facial technology verifies a passenger's identity before the UK's immigration and security checks are completed. However, passengers must still carry their passports with them. If further checks are needed, passengers may be asked to place their passport on the eGate reader or speak to a Border Force officer, as under the current system.

How it is being reported

• Stansted Airport to get major upgrade that will led to faster passport queuesPassengers arriving at Stansted Airport could see queues cut at passport control as they won't need to show their passports at eGates.Echo (Basildon) · 11 Oct, 17:00
• Stansted Airport to get major upgrade that will led to faster passport queuesPassengers arriving at Stansted Airport could see queues cut at passport control as they won't need to show their passports at eGates.Colchester Gazette · 11 Oct, 17:00

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

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