New Zealand’s Christchurch is trialling a new airport biometric screening that means families can be screened together.
The new system allows families to use the automated biometric systems now in use.
The solution is designed to extend automated, biometric passenger screening to children under 12 and individuals with special needs.
The Family Kiosk quickly processes family groups with mandatory questions responded to via the touchscreen interface and parents are able to respond on behalf of children.
The kiosk verifies passenger identity using facial recognition, and cameras are calibrated to capture passengers from 1 m to 2.1 m in height, with no moving parts.
The trial involves Safran Identity & Security (ex Morpho) and is being tested by New Zealand Customs on departures at Christchurch Airport.
Nicky Wagner, New Zealand Customs Minister:
It’s wonderful that we have an opportunity to test this new system right here in New Zealand. Customs is committed to providing a positive passenger experience, and this proof of concept will assess the feasibility of introducing automated processing for family groups.
Tim Ferris, Managing Director for Morpho Australasia (subsidiary of Safran Identity & Security):
“Family processing forms part of our next generation border control solution. As a parent myself, I am glad that we have found a way for families to self-process that had the convenience of eGates without separating children from their parents. We are delighted that the New Zealand Customs Service is committed to continuous improvement and has been able to help us test this world-first innovation.”
