Safran Identity & Security’s biometric kiosks undergoing testing at Christchurch Airport

Safran Identity & Security announced that New Zealand Customs is testing the company’s automated border control solution for families traveling together, on departures at Christchurch Airport.

The family processing solution extends the automated border control capability of the familiar eGates to families, groups and assisted travellers.

Until now, families with children under the age of 12 and assisted travellers were unable to use automated eGates and therefore had to use manual booth for customs and immigration checks.

“It’s wonderful that we have an opportunity to test this new system right here in New Zealand,” New Zealand Customs Minister Nicky Wagner, said. “Customs is committed to providing a positive passenger experience, and this proof of concept will assess the feasibility of introducing automated processing for family groups.”

The self-service biometric kiosk integrates with existing border management systems, enabling families and assisted travellers to complete their border crossing in a seamless and convenient way.

The kiosk verifies passenger identity using facial recognition, with the cameras calibrated to capture passengers from 1 m to 2.1 m (3’3 to 6’10) in height.

The new family border control solution rapidly processes family groups, prompting parents to answer mandatory questions on behalf of children via the touchscreen interface.

“Family processing forms part of our next generation border control solution,” said Tim Ferris, managing director for Morpho Australasia. “As a parent myself, I am glad that we have found a way for families to self-process that had the convenience of eGates without separating children from their parents. We are delighted that the New Zealand Customs Service is committed to continuous improvement and has been able to help us test this world-first innovation.”

Previously reported, Safran Identity & Security introduced its MorphoFACE solution for seamless face acquisition and on-the-spot identity verification at Passenger Terminal EXPO.

Article Topics

ABC gates  |  border security  |  facial recognition  |  New Zealand  |  pilot project  |  Safran Identity & Security