Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) has announced the installation of facial biometric technology at 25 boarding gates in Terminals A-East and A-West.

According to the airport, this process, using SITA’s Smart Path solution powered by the NEC I:Delight digital identity management platform, is designed to verify travelers’ identities by comparing a live photo to images already provided to the government, such as passport and visa photos.

“We are excited to move forward with the installation of biometric technology at PHL. This system will make the screening process more efficient for everyone and is especially important as international travel continues to grow post-pandemic,” said PHL Chief Operating Officer Keith Brune.

In partnership with US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), PHL says that it will install equipment to collect facial biometrics of travelers exiting the US. CBP has built the matching service that airlines, airports and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) can access wherever traveler identity verification is required, including check-in, bag drop, security checkpoints and boarding.

“CBP and PHL Airport have partnered to expand the use of facial biometrics to provide international travelers with a secure, touchless departures process for identity verification and that protects the privacy of all travelers,” said Joseph Martella, CBP’s Area Port Director for the Area Port of Philadelphia.

“Currently, CBP has processed more than 249 million travelers through facial biometrics and prevented more than 1,650 impostors from illegally entering the country. CBP will continue to explore emerging technologies to help improve travel efficiencies, the traveler experience and enhance our nation’s security.”

Travelers who do not wish to participate in the boarding process can notify a CBP Officer or an airline or airport representative, request a manual document check and are processed consistent with existing requirements for entry to the US.

“We are pleased to bring our biometric solution to PHL and help the airport meet the CBP’s mandate for biometric US exit checks. With Smart Path, the process is fast, efficient and eliminates the need to fumble for your passport or boarding card,” said Matthys Serfontein, SITA President of the Americas.