The International Air Transport Association (IATA) announced the release of its Contactless Travel Directory on April 7th. This initiative aims to improve the integration and usage of contactless travel solutions across airlines and airports.

The directory serves as a matchmaking service, enabling airlines to access information on contactless travel options available at various airports in collaboration with partner airlines.

Key Points about Contactless Travel:

• Enhances travel convenience by using biometric solutions, allowing travelers to bypass conventional documents like passports and boarding passes.
• Aims to streamline processes such as bag drop, lounge entry, security checks, and boarding.

Nick Careen, IATA’s Senior Vice-President, stated, “The release of the Contactless Travel Directory will make it easier for airlines to expand biometric service opportunities for their customers. As travelers expect ever greater efficiency, biometric recognition technology is taking on a growing role in facilitating travel.”

Partnering with Airware, IDEMIA, and iPassport, the directory will be showcased at this year’s Passenger Terminal Expo in Madrid, helping delegates experience a simulation of biometric travel.

Directory Highlights:

• Acts as a single resource for airlines to monitor the availability of biometric travel options within their operations.
• Provides traveler eligibility criteria, ensuring that airlines understand which passengers can utilize these services.
• Offers necessary technical standards for connecting with various biometric infrastructures.