The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is completing its digital transformation to upgrade traveller experiences and step away from using physical security credentials to fully digital systems.

The CBI has already implemented Global Entry (GE) kiosks across ports of entry in two Texas regions, but it was announced yesterday that passengers traveling through Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport or Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston will receive “secure and expedited processing using CBP’s new facial biometric paperless kiosks”. The updated regulations will come into force from 26 July.

Across the aviation sector, airlines and airports are making the commitment to streamline existing digital security procedures and upgrade integrating technologies. In June, the CBP, represented by Diane Sabatino, Deputy Executive Assistant Commissioner, attended Identity Week Europe in London to give an inspiring keynote address on the implementation of closely-matching facial biometric systems across ports of entry in the U.S, which compare a live facial image to photographs.

While the sector also manages tensions from cancellations of thousands of UK summer flights, it was reported by IdentityWeek.net earlier this month that three British air travel bosses are plotting to lead a “golden age of air travel” in three directions – boosting revenue, sustainability and digitalisation.

The proposed system will eliminate paper receipts and documents for travel at these airports, while the UK’s Home Office has also announced kiosks will be introduced.

The technology enhances CBP’s Global Entry program for both travellers and officers, upgrading the consumer experience, reducing physical touchpoints and expediting member processing while protecting global security concerns.

“We’re very pleased to have both DFW and IAH Airports come on board to enhance our Global Entry Arrival process,” said Judson W. Murdock II, CBP Director of Field Operations, Houston. “This enhancement will allow us to streamline the arrival process for Global Entry members by continuing to reduce the time in the arrivals line for thousands of eligible travellers entering the United States.”

Global Entry is a CBP program that allows efficient processing for advance on-boarded, low-risk passengers upon arrival at selected airports in the United States.