An automated border control, called Automated Passport Control (APC), is to be introduced at Chicago O’Hare (ORD).
ORD will be the first airport in the United States to implement the system.
Developed by Vancouver Airport Authority and the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the system allows international passengers to enter their information at self-service kiosks for faster border clearance.
Instead of filling out a declaration card, passengers who are eligible and choose to use APC can proceed directly to a self-service kiosk in the U.S. Customs and Border Protection area. Passengers will be prompted to answer a series of questions at the touch screen self-service kiosk. Once passengers have completed the series of questions, a receipt will be issued. Passengers then bring their passport, travel information and receipt to a CBP officer for verification.
APC does not require pre-registration, is easy to use and maintains the highest levels of protection when it comes to the handling of personal data or information. As a result, passengers will experience shorter wait times, less congestion, and faster processing but will also be assured that the safety and security of passengers, employees and visitors remains a top priority.
The CDA is planning on installing 32 kiosks at Chicago O’Hare by July 1, 2013, in time for the busy summer travel season. The program seemed a logical fit for O’Hare to address some issues with customs processing. The APC increases the productivity of the CBP officers and resources by transferring data collection duties to passengers in line.
Rahm Emanuel, Chicago Mayor:
“This technology will help expedite customs processing for passengers arriving to O’Hare, further strengthening Chicago as a global destination.
“Being the first airport in the U.S. to implement these advances demonstrates how serious we are about making Chicago the first, best and most welcoming city in the country.”