In the March print edition of Professional Security we reported on the biometric system – using hand geometry – at Ben Gurion Airport in Israel. Here, we feature an airport?s use of biometrics nearer home – Heathrow.
Some 2.000 frequent fliers have been invited to take part in a five-month trial. An iris scan checks the pasenger against a database, so that authorised users can gain clearance through passport control in a matter of seconds, expediting the arrivals process and maximising space in the immigration hall in Terminals 3 and 4. Gunnebo SpeedStiles are entrance control gates used. BAA Heathrow?s Managing Director, Mick Temple said: “Heathrow is always looking for new and innovative ways of improving passenger journeys through the airport. With this trial we hope to establish that iris recognition technology can prove to be an effective and highly accurate means of ensuring passengers on arrival are legitimate entrants to the UK. Although this particular trial is about simplifying a passenger?s progress through the airport, we will also consider whether in the long term this sort of technology could have wider security benefits.? The trial was set up through IATA?s (International Air Transport Association) Simplifying Passenger Travel Interest Group which includes airports, airlines, immigration authorities and technological suppliers world wide. Similar systems are planned in the US, at New York?s JFK and Washington?s Dulles airports.
