In a bold move to push Australian airports closer to automation, travellers leaving on outbound international flights will now be able to check in using electronic boarding passes.
This means travellers will now be able to check into their flights with their smartphones, and also board planes with a paperless boarding pass.
Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Affairs Alan Tudge believes the move is one towards increased automation at our borders, similarly to the SmartGates system, which allows eligible travellers arriving in Australia to electronically self-process though passport control.
Arrivals SmartGate uses the information in ePassports and facial recognition technology to perform checks usually conducted by an Australian Border Force officer.
“Last financial year more than 21.4 million travellers were cleared through the border departing Australian international airports. This number will continue to rise,” said Mr Tudge.
“These increasing volumes mean we are always looking for ways to clear legitimate travellers efficiently and seek out those of interest to law enforcement.
“This change will cut out the need to visit the check-in desk to show your passport and collect your paper boarding pass.
“Australia is a world leader in seamless travel and this move will allow travellers to move across our border smoothly.”
Soon we may not even need to see a border guard, gate agent or flight attendant. But rest assured, they’ll still be seeing you.
What do you think of airport automation? Do you appreciate being able to move through lines faster with the help of technology? Or would you rather take your time and interact with people?
Related articles:
Fingerprints to replace passports
Stress-free check-in checklist
Travelmate: the robotic suitcase
