Thailand's Airports Introduce Facial Recognition: Smoother Travel

 

Thailand is making travel easier by introducing facial recognition technology at its major airports. This new system will be introduced for domestic flights in November and for international flights in December, speeding up security checks and boarding. With this upgrade, passengers can enjoy a more convenient airport experience across Thailand.

Better Airport Travel with Biometric Security

Airports of Thailand (AOT) will implement this biometric system at six major airports, reducing wait times and speeding up security for both local and international flights. Thailand will be one of the first countries in Southeast Asia to fully adopt biometric boarding, adding security and efficiency to the airport experience.

How it works: Hands-free checkpoints and boarding

Starting Nov. 1 for domestic flights and Dec. 1 for international flights, the biometric system will allow passengers to go through security checks with just a facial scan and board their flights:

- Nov. 1: Domestic passengers will begin using this system.

- Dec. 1: International passengers can begin using facial recognition.

Passengers will no longer need to repeatedly show their ID or boarding pass, allowing security checks to be completed in just 10 seconds.

Airports using biometric technology in Thailand

The new facial recognition system will be available at these six airports, making it more convenient to travel to and from Thailand's primary hubs:

- Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK)
- Don Mueang International Airport (DMK)
- Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)
- Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai
- Phuket International Airport (HKT)
- Hat Yai International Airport (HDY)

How to sign up for facial recognition at the airport

Passengers can register for the facial recognition system at two points within the airport:

- Check-in counter: Staff will assist you with a quick registration process.

- Self-check-in kiosk: Passengers can register independently by scanning their boarding pass, entering identification details and completing a facial scan.

Initially, biometric data will be valid for 24 hours for single trips. By mid-2025, AOT aims to extend this data validity to two years, making travel even more seamless for regular travelers.

Step-by-step biometric boarding process

1. Choose a check-in option: Choose either a staffed counter or a self-service kiosk.

2. Consent: Agree to use the biometric system.

3. Facial recognition: Use a scan of your face when going through security and boarding, eliminating the need for a boarding pass or ID.

4. Frequent travelers: Re-register each trip until the data retention period increases to two years in 2025.