IATA unanimously resolves to speed adoption of One ID for biometric air travel

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) will work to accelerate the adoption of a single biometric identifier through its One ID initiative by unanimous decision at its 75th Annual General Meeting.

The resolution calls for airlines, airports, government authorities, and other stakeholders to work together on the implementation of a paperless passenger process utilizing biometrics. The organization noted in proposing the resolution that up to 40 percent of terminal space could be freed up with biometric deployment.

“Biometric recognition using the One ID concept modernizes the airport experience for passengers and improves the efficiency and security of identification processes. Using global standards for digital identity and data exchange will move us a big step closer to a hassle-free airport experience for passengers. Every traveler will appreciate the convenience of getting from the curb to the gate without ever having to show a paper passport or boarding pass,” comments IATA Director General and CEO Alexandre de Juniac.

Airlines called for International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Member States to endorse the digital travel credential specifications as an alternative to passports, and for the aviation industry and states to work together to develop global standards for safe and secure access, transfer, and use of passenger identity data on a need-to-know or allow-to-know basis in compliance with various data privacy requirements, according to the announcement.

One ID concepts are being trialled at Atlanta International, Aruba International, Heathrow, Sydney, Schiphol, Changi, and Dubai International Airports, and other in the U.S.

Acuity predicts the number of biometric touchpoints at airports around the world will grow by 27 percent CAGR by 2022.

Article Topics

airports  |  biometrics  |  credentials  |  identity verification  |  International Air Transport Association  |  One ID  |  passenger processing  |  standards