Facial matching touchpoints have arrived at the Canada Place terminal optimising cruise passenger experiences during disembarkment. The collaboration between Vancouver Fraser Port Authority and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will bring Canadian citizens in touch with biometric procedures for the first time at a Canadian seaport.
The new system aims to improve passenger experience, terminal efficiency, and border security.
Peter Xotta, the president and CEO of the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, stated, “We’re excited to partner with U.S. authorities to implement this state-of-the-art passenger processing technology, providing a fast, secure, and convenient experience for passengers embarking on a cruise.”
The facial biometric system automates manual identity verification for those boarding cruises requiring U.S. admission. Passengers will have their photo taken during boarding, which will be compared to their advanced travel documentation within seconds.
Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner of CBP, Diane Sabatino, noted, “This new identity verification process incorporating facial biometrics offers a secure, touchless experience at embarkation for cruise passengers” – a mission the CBP has been focused on for two decades.
Hear Diane Sabatino speak on behalf of the CBP at this year’s Identity Week America, 11-12 September, Washington D.C.
The programme, now operational in Vancouver, replaces automatic passport kiosks introduced in 2015 and is customised to meet the operational needs of the Canada Place terminal.
The technology was developed by Pangiam, a BigBear.ai company, in collaboration with CBP and the port authority. SSA Marine will manage the technical aspects of the new system.
Passengers can opt-out of the facial biometric process and undergo manual document checks by border officers instead.
