They are bringing an update to the gates at airports: Passport-free and contactless!

This method, which has started to be implemented in the UK, means that eligible passengers arriving in the country will soon be able to pass through airport electronic gates without showing their passports.

According to Euronews, this initiative, which was initially open only to British citizens, was launched this week at East Midlands Airport in England. The government said in a statement that it plans to modernize all electronic toll gates in the country by early 2027 and expand their accessibility to other eligible nationals.

ACCELERATES TRANSITION SPEED BY 25%

According to tests, the new contactless system is up to 25% faster than presenting a physical passport.

“We are delighted to be the first UK airport to have contactless electronic gates introduced by Border Force,” said Steve Griffiths, Managing Director of East Midlands Airport. He added that any technological innovation that can make customers' journeys "smoother, faster and simpler" is welcomed.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

The contactless system uses facial comparison technology to verify the passenger's identity. On arrival, passengers approach an electronic gate where they are photographed, and the system then compares the live image with verified immigration, travel and passport information. And if everything is OK, the barrier opens automatically, which means the checks are completed.

However, if additional checks are required, travelers will need to insert their passport into the reader or be directed to a Border Security officer. That's why authorities recommend that passengers always have their passports with them.