The Port of Seattle has partnered with US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to introduce the new Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app for use by passengers at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. The airport is only the third in the USA to adopt the technology.
The app works in much the same way as automated passport control (APC) kiosks in that it allows passengers to fill in their passport details digitally in order to help expedite the security screening process. The app does not require pre-approval and is free to download from the Google Play store and Apple’s App Store. Once downloaded, travelers simply create a new profile with their passport information and fill in a new trip form on arrival in the USA. When submitted, the app will send an encrypted quick response (QR) code that can be scanned by a CBP officer.
Charles Goedken, manager of international operations, Seattle-Tacoma Airport, said, “The Port of Seattle is excited to launch this new opportunity for expedited travel processing in partnership with the CBP. With the ever increasing number of international passengers coming to our region, we need these types of innovations to keep travelers happy and moving through our facility.”
Todd C Owen, assistant commissioner of field operations, CBP, said, “With the continued expansion of MPC, CBP is following through with our commitment to improving the international arrivals experience for travelers. CBP remains committed to making a traveler’s entry into the US as secure, paperless, and efficient as possible.”