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We all know how it goes: you arrive at the airport and you have to forcibly go through a number of checkpoints before you can finally board your flight. It seems like this system would never change, mainly because of how efficient it has been internationally.But now, a change is under way. Several airlines are putting in motion a new system that eliminates the presence of a gate clerk, prompting the use of automated electronic systems that enhance the efficiency of the boarding process.
Airlines like EasyJet and British Airways are now on a trial period for their face-scanning gadget that cuts the waiting time for the boarding process almost by half.
Recently introduced to their international flights, EasyJet has now allowed for travelers to enter the airport and scan their boarding pass without the need of a desk agent. With the help of this face-scanning system, the passenger will be able to register their entry to the airport as well as make his way to security checkpoints quicker.
The move comes as no surprise, given the advancement of technology– a shift that now sees a dominant number of airfare tickets being bought online, without the use of travel agents or third parties.
Passengers arrive and go through the first of two automated scans on what used to be the airline's counter. Their easy to use interface allows travelers to quickly speed through this first step of the process.
They now scan their boarding pass and passport before having their picture taken– the automated way of creating a registry of the passenger at the flight.
After this, they go through the usual security check. This part of the process still seems to be primordial, for security agents are still in charge of checking all belongings before entering the boarding area.
Right before arriving at their gate, travelers encounter a final face-scanning machine that will ask for their boarding passes and take another picture. This will confirm their identity and will also grant them entry into the waiting area before they depart.
As this technological revolution seems like it's not going to stop anytime soon, experts question the viability of the system. Many state they feel a little uncomfortable with a security check that relies solely on a robot– the elimination of humans in the process seems a little dubious.
While many may wonder if this is an indication of how robots and machines are taking over the world, others simply believe that the less time they have to spend at an airport, the better.
