International rail operator Eurostar is launching a contactless travel trial for passengers from London St Pancras.
The fast-track SmartCheck travel solution lets travellers complete ticket and passport checks securely at home prior to travel, meaning with face verification, they can proceed quickly to boarding once at St Pancras.
On arrival at St Pancras International station, passengers proceed through a dedicated SmartCheck lane. A brief face scan at the ticket gate verifies that the customer has completed the ticket check, with no sharing of paper or electronic tickets needed.
A second face scan at the UK Exit Check allows Eurostar to verify that the passenger has completed their passport information, again replacing the need for travellers to hand over documentation.
The trail is being operated in conjunction with iProov, the biometric face authentication technology specialist.
Business Premier and Carte Blanche ticket holders will be able to scan their identity documentation using their iPhones before arriving at the station, completing a brief biometric face scan to verify that they are the genuine holder of the identity document.
Currently, it involves a limited number of invited passengers and is focused on the check-in and exit control processes operated by Eurostar at St Pancras Station and not the UK or Schengen Entry controls.
Andrew Bud, founder and chief executive, iProov, said: "This secure, convenient and privacy-protecting technology will make life easier and safer for travellers around the world.
"The days of rooting around in your bag for your passport or hoping that your phone battery doesn’t run out before you show your e-ticket at the gate are over. It’s effortless and convenient while also delivering the reassurance and security that travellers expect.”
Gareth Williams, strategy director and company secretary, Eurostar, added: "We are committed to working closely with governments to introduce new tools and technology that streamline the check in and border process.
“Face biometric technology is a fast and contactless solution which will enable secure passenger checks to take place more efficiently and provide a seamless start to the Eurostar customer journey.”
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