Thailand Starts Biometric Check-in for Faster Travel at 6 Major Airports

Starting December 1, Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT) will launch a new biometric check-in system across all six AOT airports. The system, designed to streamline passenger processing, will be available at;

1. Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
2. Don Mueang International Airport (DMK)
3. Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)
4. Mae Fah Luang–Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI)
5. Phuket International Airport (HKT)
6. Hat Yai International Airport (HDY)

The Benefits of Biometric Check-In System

The primary goal of this biometric check-in system is to streamline the check-in process and significantly reduce waiting times for domestic and international passengers. By utilizing facial recognition technology, AOT aims to expedite various stages of the airport journey, including:

1. Check-in Process: Passengers can register facial data at airline counters or self-service kiosks (CUSS), linking their travel documents for a quicker, paperless experience.

2. Automated Bag Drop: Travelers can check in their luggage using automated bag-drop machines (CUBD), streamlining the process and avoiding long queues at traditional counters.

3. Seamless Security Checks: Once registered, passengers can clear security checkpoints through facial recognition, eliminating the need to present physical passports or boarding passes.

4. Facial Recognition Boarding: Boarding is simplified with facial recognition technology, allowing passengers to bypass manual document checks and board directly.

How to Register for Biometrics

Passengers travelling from Thailand can register their biometric data using two convenient methods:

1. At Airline Check-in Counters:

• Request assistance from airline staff to register facial data at the boarding pass scanner.
• The system will capture facial data and link it to travel documents.

2. Using Self-Service Machines (CUSS):

• Select your airline on the machine and consent to facial data registration.
• Complete the check-in process and print your boarding pass.
• Scan the boarding pass barcode, insert a passport or ID card, and undergo a facial scan to finalize registration.

Hassle-Free Security and Boarding

Once registered, passengers can proceed through security and boarding without needing to present their passports or boarding passes again. The system uses facial recognition at each checkpoint, offering a smooth journey through the airport.

Automated Luggage Check-in

AOT has introduced automated bag-drop machines (CUBD) for those with luggage. Passengers can check in their bags without assistance, further speeding up the process.

Data Privacy and Security

AOT assures passengers that all biometric data will be automatically deleted within 48 hours of registration. This complies with Thailand’s Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) and international data security standards, ensuring that privacy concerns are addressed.

A Step Towards World-Class Airport Services

This biometric initiative is part of AOT’s commitment to enhancing airport services, boosting Thailand’s aviation and tourism sectors, and contributing to economic growth. Travelers can look forward to a seamless and efficient experience, that aligns with global standards.