As of now, Portugal is making efforts to ensure that travel through its biggest airports is streamlined and hassle-free.
This is being done in an attempt to implement biometric travel at a total of five airports before the current year comes to an end.
VINCI Airports took to announcing this news, stating that it is attempting to make boarding contactless, faster, and secure.
It further revealed that the technology is already being tested in airports located in the cities of Porto and Lisbon.
Biometrics
In the second half of the current year, it has been revealed that the technology solution is in the works to be implemented in the airports of Madeira, Ponta Delgada, and Faro.
As a result, Portugal is aiming to become the first country with the most airports that have biometrics security in the bloc.
Moreover, VINCI Airports has taken to explain that the first tests on departures from Porto and Lisbon airports are being carried out in a robust manner.
It has been disclosed that the passengers currently being tested are using the TAP Air Portugal airline on flights.
These were previously selected by the company, before the beginning of testing, from countries located within the Schengen Area.
It was further revealed by the VINCI Airports that the second phase would include passengers traveling via various other airlines.
As a result, additional destinations will be included, as well as the other extra-European flights within the Schengen Area.
Limitations
The relevant authorities have stipulated that the biometric solution will only be applicable to passengers who are of legal age.
Consequently, their biometric data collection at Porto and Lisbon airports is already in motion and being used for the solution.
In addition, passengers who want to test out the new solution for themselves when departing from Porto and Lisbon airports will be permitted to participate.
However, participation in the implementation of the solution will require registration online in advance.
For ease of travelers, the registration can be done using mobile phones. All passengers need to do is download the Biometric Experience app, which is available on both Android and iOS.
People can also become a part of the overall testing period by making registrations at the airport with the help of designated equipment.
This equipment has been made available for this purpose alone at the kiosks that are located at the entrance of the airport for check-in, which is located next to the boarding gate for travelers who are taking connecting flights.
VINCI Airports
Meanwhile, Vinci Airports has released a statement saying that traveling will now be made easier for travelers, who will no longer have to wait in queues or make unnecessary stops.
It added that once the travelers register within the app or at the location at designated kiosks, they will not have to use identification documents or boarding passes.
According to VINCI Airports, the use of the solution is quite simple. Both the app and kiosks allow passengers to take a picture of their boarding passes or scan it.
At the same location, they can use their electronic passports or ID cards or take a selfie and go along with the terms and conditions.
