Spanish flag carrier Iberia has unveiled a new facial recognition boarding service for its flights between Madrid and Barcelona.
This innovative biometric boarding service, which is now operational at six gates in Madrid-Barajas airport and one gate in Barcelona-El Prat airport, allows travellers to navigate through security control and the boarding gate “without having to show the necessary documents,” as stated by the carrier, which is owned by International Airlines Group (IAG).
The service is open to all travellers aged 18 and above who possess either a Spanish ID or an electronic EU passport. Additionally, adult members of Iberia’s loyalty programme, Iberia Plus, are eligible to use the service. However, all travellers must first register a biometric profile before their journey, either through the carrier’s app or at designated kiosks within the airport.
During registration, travellers are required to input their personal information, capture a photo of their ID, scan the document’s chip, and take a selfie using their mobile device. Subsequently, the biometric identity is linked to their boarding pass during the check-in process.
Iberia clarifies that the registration process is a one-time requirement. For subsequent trips, travellers only need to associate their boarding pass with their biometric profile.
Importantly, the introduction of facial recognition boarding does not impact traditional boarding groups, according to the carrier. Upon reaching the gate, travellers have the option to choose between conventional boarding pass access or the biometric gate.
Currently, Iberia’s biometric boarding service is compatible with mobile devices operating on iOS. The carrier plans to extend compatibility to Android-operated devices in the near future.