Perth Airport readies for a biometric future

Perth Airport is preparing for biometric-based passenger processing as passenger numbers rise.

The airport will install an additional 95 self-service check-in kiosks at Terminal 1 and convert a number of traditional check-in counters to 38 automated bag drops in a project with travel technology company Amadeus.

The self-service kiosks will feature biometric functionalities, designed to allow a smooth and contactless passenger experience from check-in to boarding.

Biometrics have the potential to reduce queues and processing times at airports, improving passenger flow at a time when passenger numbers continue to grow.

The airport said travellers with selected airlines would be able to check-in and opt for biometrics at self-service kiosks, after which a facial scan would be required to validate the passenger’s identity and retrieve travel records at bag drop and boarding, rather than using passports and boarding passes.

“Biometrics are a game-changer,” Sarah Samuel, Amadeus’s senior vice-president airline and airport operations (APAC), said.

“Once passengers have scanned their passport at check-in they can safely put it back in their pocket, drop their bag and board the plane without having to present any physical documents.”

Perth Airport said self-service kiosks had proved popular since they were first installed at Terminal 1 International in 2020.

“We’ve seen more airlines and passengers want to use the self-service devices due to the efficiencies that they provide,” Perth Airport chief operating officer Scott Woodward said.

“We know that passengers want their departure experience to be hassle-free so by harnessing automation, these upgrades deliver a seamless experience for their journey.

“This provides both our airline partners and travellers with the flexibility they need to ensure a smooth and efficient journey for everyone.”

Perth Airport and Amadeus conducted a series of biometrics trials in 2022, including with Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific.

During the trials, volunteer passengers on selected flights created a biometric token at a check-in kiosk, verifying their booking details, facial image and passport. This token was then used at bag drop and boarding via a biometric camera and facial scan.