Roll-out begins for passport-free airport e-gates

Passengers traveling to the UK will soon be able to enter airports without showing their passport, thanks to a new contactless system announced by the government. East Midlands Airport became the first to implement this technology, with plans to expand it to all UK airports by early 2027, according to the Home Office.

The system utilizes facial recognition technology. As passengers approach the e-gate, their photo is captured and compared against immigration, travel, and passport information. If verified, the barrier opens automatically, making the process up to 25% faster than using a passport, according to officials. If additional checks are needed, travelers must present their passport or may be directed to a Border Force officer.

Border Force officers will continue monitoring all e-gates and assist passengers, while also keeping their passports on hand at all times.

Phil Douglas, director general of Border Force, expressed that this advancement benefits travelers coming to the UK. The digital transformation aims to streamline and expedite journeys while maintaining the UK's stringent border security. Karen Dee, chief executive of Airports UK, emphasized that the move is excellent news for passengers. She highlighted the importance of fast and efficient borders that travelers now expect and stressed the need for close collaboration with government officials for a smooth rollout.

Steve Griffiths, managing director of East Midlands Airport, expressed delight at being the first UK airport to introduce contactless e-gates. He welcomed any technological innovations that enhance the safety and efficiency of passengers' journeys. The standard e-gates are currently available at various airports, including Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Gatwick, Glasgow, Heathrow, London City, Luton, Manchester, Newcastle, and Stansted.