Passport Checks: Airport Security's Behind-The-Scenes Procedures

Passport checks at airports are an important security measure to confirm the identity of travellers and ensure they are permitted to enter or exit a country. While manual checks by immigration officers are still common, many airports have introduced automated border control systems (ABC) or eGates that use facial recognition, iris recognition, or fingerprint technology to verify a traveller's identity. These systems compare the biometric data stored in the chip of e-passports with the traveller's physical biometrics. The use of ABC systems and eGates aims to streamline the border control process, enhance security, and reduce the potential for human error in passport checks at airports worldwide.

Automated border control systems

The automated border control system is based on the biometric identification of passengers. A real-life picture is taken to compare individual facial dimensions with the photograph held on the chip in the passport. Passengers travelling with an infant or with a wheelchair may still need to opt for the manual border control line.

The gates are connected to the Information System of the Border Police, allowing checks to be carried out by querying databases and accessing relevant operative information. Currently, they are only available at Bucharest's Henri Coanda International Airport, Copenhagen Airport, Helsinki Airport, and some airports in Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Romania, Singapore, and Spain.

The use of automated border control systems provides a simple self-service process, reducing transit times and allowing seamless entry and exit for travellers.

Biometric identification

In addition to facial recognition, other biometric modalities, such as iris recognition and fingerprints, can be used for identity verification. For example, Japan's J-BIS Biounit system, implemented at Narita Airport, Kansai International Airport, and Chūbu Centrair International Airport, collects the fingerprints of both index fingers along with a photograph to verify the identity of travellers. This system also checks individuals against immigration office lists, preventing criminals, previously deported individuals, and other flagged foreigners from entering the country.

While the use of biometric technology enhances security and efficiency, it also raises privacy concerns. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) addresses these concerns through its Privacy Impact Assessments, which outline how the TSA identifies, mitigates, and notifies the public about the collection and use of personally identifiable information (PII) during the employment of biometric technologies. Additionally, the TSA ensures that photos and personal data collected through biometric cameras are deleted after identity verification, and they are not used for law enforcement or surveillance purposes.

Scanning and cross-referencing

One of the key components of scanning and cross-referencing is the use of eGates or Automated Border Control (ABC) systems. These self-service barriers leverage the data stored in the electronic chip of e-passports or biometric passports. When a passenger presents their passport at the gate, their facial image, iris, or fingerprints are captured and compared with the information stored in the chip. This biometric verification ensures that the physical person matches the data within the passport, preventing identity fraud or impersonation.

The eGates are equipped with sophisticated facial recognition technology, enabling them to compare the live image of the passenger with the photograph recorded on the chip. This process is further strengthened by additional security measures. The printed information on the passport is cross-referenced with the data in the chip, ensuring consistency and authenticity. Furthermore, the information is checked against multiple databases to identify potential red flags or security concerns. These databases may include watchlists of individuals deemed as potential security threats or lists of individuals with prior deportation or criminal records.

The implementation of eGates facilitates a more efficient and secure border control process. Once a passenger's identity is successfully verified, a physical barrier, such as a gate or turnstile, automatically opens to permit their passage. In the event of a failed verification or system malfunction, an immigration officer will intervene and provide assistance.

It is important to note that the availability and eligibility criteria for using eGates may vary across different countries and airports. While some airports offer this technology to citizens of specific countries or regions, such as the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, others extend the facility to a broader range of nationalities. The use of eGates is typically restricted to individuals aged 18 or above, although some airports, like those in Japan, allow travellers as young as 6 years old to utilise the system.

Manual checks

Manual passport checks at airports are an important security measure to confirm the identity of travellers. Typically, a valid passport is required for international travel, and a driver's license or other state-issued photo ID is accepted for domestic flights. At the check-in counter, airline staff manually checks the traveller's passport to confirm their identity and ensure they are allowed to make their journey. This involves visually comparing the passenger's appearance with the photo on their passport and confirming that the name on the passport matches the name on the ticket. This manual check may be supplemented by a computer system that can scan the passport and cross-reference the passenger's information with a database.

At some airports, there may be additional manual passport checks at the gate, where security officers or immigration officials verify the passenger's identity and immigration status. These checks serve as an additional layer of security to ensure that only authorised individuals board the aircraft. In some cases, passengers may be asked questions to assess their risk level and ensure they are not carrying any prohibited items.

During manual passport checks, security personnel may also verify other forms of identification, such as a driver's license or state-issued ID card. For domestic flights, a valid government-issued photo ID is typically required. At TSA checkpoints in the United States, passengers must present acceptable identification, such as a U.S. passport, passport card, or other approved forms of ID.

In addition to visual inspections, manual passport checks may involve the use of biometric data. This includes technologies such as fingerprint scanning, retinal scanning, and facial recognition. By comparing a passenger's biometric data with a database, security personnel can verify their identity and cross-reference against watchlists or lists of potentially risky individuals.

While manual passport checks are essential, they are often supplemented by automated systems and advanced technologies. These include the use of boarding pass scanners, which verify the authenticity of the boarding pass and match it with the passenger's identity. Additionally, systems like the Computer Assisted Passenger Prescreening System (CAPPS II) aim to streamline the check-in process by conducting risk assessments based on personal information provided during flight bookings.

International requirements

International travel typically requires a valid passport, with some countries requiring the passport to be valid for a certain period beyond the date of departure. It is the responsibility of the traveller to check the requirements of their destination country, and to ensure they have the correct documentation. This may include a visa, and some countries now employ electronic visa schemes.

At the airport, passports are checked at various points, including check-in, security, and the gate. These checks are in place to ensure the traveller is allowed to enter the secure area beyond, and to verify that the person matches the details on the passport and boarding pass. The checks also confirm that the traveller is in the correct terminal and queue, and that they are eligible to exit the country.

Boarding passes are also scrutinised, and the name on the pass must match the name on the passport. Some countries, such as the US, will take a photo of the traveller at the gate to verify their identity.

It is important to note that some countries may have specific entry requirements, and travellers should check with the relevant authorities, such as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), or a local embassy or consulate, to ensure they have the correct documentation before travelling.

Frequently asked questions