East Midlands Airport has become the first UK airport to introduce contactless eGates, allowing eligible passengers arriving in the UK to pass through passport control without presenting their passport to a reader.
image: East Midlands Airport
The technology, introduced by Border Force this month, uses facial comparison to verify a passenger’s identity against immigration, travel and passport records. The government expects the system to be available at all UK airports by early 2027.
Passengers approach the gate and have their photograph taken. Once the system has completed the required checks, the gate opens automatically. Passengers must still carry a valid passport, and those requiring further verification may be asked to scan it or speak to a Border Force officer.
Testing indicates that the contactless process can be up to 25% faster than using a conventional eGate, according to the Home Office. Border Force officers will continue to monitor the gates and provide assistance.
The rollout forms part of the government’s programme to modernise the UK border through digital technology, while maintaining existing immigration and security checks. Initially, contactless eGates are limited to British citizens, with access for other eligible nationalities expected to expand in future.
The phased introduction is planned across 13 airports: East Midlands, Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Gatwick, Glasgow, Heathrow, London City, Luton, Manchester, Newcastle and Stansted.
East Midlands Airport said the technology complements recent improvements to its immigration hall, including clearer wayfinding intended to help arriving passengers navigate passport control.
Steve Griffiths, managing director of East Midlands Airport, said the introduction would help make passenger journeys through the airport smoother and quicker.