AOptix e-Gate could improve global airport security, replace ID checks with iris scans
You're certainly not alone if you think that the current airport security process is far from ideal. AOptix hopes to streamline and speed up security procedures by replacing manual boarding pass and ID checks with a biometric kiosk called e-Gate. The new system, which verifies passenger identities by matching an iris scan with a boarding pass, just received (IATA) approval, and is currently being tested in three airports around the world. It's not as slick as a similar concept we saw earlier this summer, but e-Gate could be implemented with a trusted traveler program, creating special lanes for pre-approved frequent fliers -- similar to the US Customs Global Entry system in place today. We don't see it replacing X-ray machines and check-in interviews, but it could remove human error from the equation -- at least when it comes to verifying your identity. Jump past the break for the full scoop from AOptix, or you can check out the system for yourself at the Future Travel Experience in Vancouver.
Update: e-Gate is in fact a potential component of Checkpoint of the Future, which we saw conceptualized in June.%Gallery-133007%
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Iris Recognition Leader AOptix Technologies Announces Strategic Partnership with IATA
Biometric company will join other members to help the International Air Transport Association build the Checkpoint of the Future
Campbell, California – September 9, 2011 -- AOptix Technologies, Inc., (AOptix) (www.aoptix.com), a leading developer of advanced biometrics-based identity solutions, today announced their Strategic Partnership with the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Joining the Passenger Experience Management Group and the Security Forum, the Strategic Partnership will enable AOptix to play a key role in determining how biometrics can be deployed as a part of IATA's Checkpoint of the Future, International Traveler Scheme, and other initiatives.
Well known for deploying at-a-distance iris recognition systems that are fast, accurate and extremely easy to use, AOptix will bring their experience at border crossings and passenger terminal checkpoints to air transportation challenges including long traveler wait times, intrusive traveler searches, and overall automation and efficiency of the air travel process.
"We are very excited about the opportunity to work with IATA to introduce leading edge biometric technologies to the world's airports to help expedite identity checks and enhance the overall passenger experience" says Joseph Pritikin, Director of Marketing. "Because our focus is on creating non-invasive biometric systems that deliver conclusive passenger authentication without hassle, we hope to provide IATA and its partners with valuable perspective about effectively balancing these different goals."
Highlighting technologies that could play a critical role in realizing IATA's initiatives, AOptix is demonstrating a next-generation automated iris recognition e-Gate system in their booth at the Future Travel Experience in Vancouver, Canada, September 7th through 9th. After a quick biometric enrollment on an AOptix InSight® 2 meter iris recognition system, attendees will be able to validate their identity by first placing their boarding pass on a reader and then briefly glancing at a second InSight system to match their iris to their ticket. Coupling a transaction that takes mere seconds with the accuracy of iris recognition, the InSight-based eGate can dramatically improve the passenger experience while significantly increasing checkpoint security.
