CBP bolsters biometric technology applications

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced that the agency has deployed more biometric facial comparison technology to reduce traveler contact and streamline the travel experience.

Officials said, through a partnership with Los Angeles World of Airports (LAWA), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has been positioned as a touchless and safe airport amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We have implemented numerous safety protocols and innovative processes at all of our ports of entry to reduce the risk of exposure to COVID-19,” Director of Field Operations Carlos C. Martel said. “Although we have seen a decrease of international traveler volumes over the last couple of months, the pandemic has not disrupted our ability to process international travelers coming into the Los Angeles Area.”

The initiative involves deployment of Biometric Exit, Global Entry Modernization, and groundwork for implementing the Simplified Arrival program. The three initiatives are critical components of paperless, state-of-the-art, faster, and more secure international traveler processing.

“Los Angeles World Airports and our partners are investing in biometrics and other cutting-edge technology that reduces contact among travelers and streamlines the overall travel experience to make the airport journey quicker, safer, more comfortable, and enjoyable,” Justin Erbacci, LAWA CEO, said. “We are proud to work closely with U.S. Customs and Border Protection as we use this new technology to provide faster, easier, and more secure passenger processing.”

CBP’s biometric facial matching service will match the new photo of the traveler to a small gallery of high-quality images the traveler has already provided to the government, such as passport and visa photos, and new Global Entry kiosks integrate facial biometrics, allowing for faster and more secure processing.

Authorities indicated Simplified Arrival pairs the highest-ranked facial comparison algorithm with trained CBP officers skilled at verifying travel document authenticity.