Miami celebrates launch of facial recognition technology as government officials call for more biometric screening

As U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection (CBP) officials call for increased initiatives for the implementation of biometric facial recognition technology at our nation’s airports, Miami International Airport is touting the opening of its renovated federal inspection facility in Concourse E which airport officials say, “is the first in the country dedicated to using biometric facial recognition to verify a traveler’s identity.”  

When passengers arrive off select flights, they approach CBP inspectors with passport in hand as usual. However, they are also asked to look into a small camera. Facial recognition software then compares the photo to the picture on file. Since testing got underway in November, officials say they have been able to screen nearly 10 passengers per minute with the facial recognition process.

Nationally, tests have also been underway at various airports such as Boston Logan and Los Angeles International. Elsewhere, facial recognition technology is already in place for KLM passengers flying to Amsterdam while Lufthansa has tested similar technology for passengers to board aircraft without showing a boarding pass.

U.S. officials say facial recognition technology, “has the potential to not only speed up queues for international arrivals, but also to reduce lines at the TSA ID check station and even at boarding gates.

Airport construction underway at Washington Reagan National, may cause traffic issues

Construction activity as part of a $1 billion revitalization project at Washington Reagan National airport may cause traffic issues for passengers driving to and from the airport. Lane closures in the arrivals areas around Terminals B and C will initially be limited to overnight hours. Later this spring, the airport’s lower level roadway will be subject to round-the-clock construction and more widespread closures. Traffic patterns are expected to change, and Uber/Lyft pickups might be moved from the arrivals to the departure area.

Inside the airport, Delta and American Airlines ticket kiosks and bag drop-off counters have been moved into National Hall, about 100 feet from their previous locations near the Metro walkways.

Airport officials say travelers should allow extra time to arrive and transit through the airport during the renovation process. More information on construction updates and advisories can be found at http://www.flyreagan.com/dca/construction-advisories.