Star Alliance and NEC Corporation have signed a partnership for the development of a biometric data-based identification platform.
Customers will have the option to enrol in the new platform, via their smartphones, using industry-leading security technology. They only need to enrol once and can then use their biometrics data multiple times at biometrics touchpoints at any participating airport when traveling with a Star Alliance member airline.
Personal data, such as photo and other identification details, is encrypted and safely stored within the platform. From the outset, the system has been designed in compliance with data protection laws. Personal data will only be processed with the consent of the passenger. Passengers may be required to show their passport during security and immigration procedures.
Once the platform has been implemented, Star Alliance customers who opt in to biometrics will be able to pass through curb-to-gate touchpoints within airports, such as check-in kiosks, bag-drop, lounges and boarding gates, which traditionally require both a passport and boarding pass, by using a secure identity management solution featuring facial recognition technology.
The service will be available to customers who are enrolled in one of the Star Alliance frequent flyer programs and who have authorized the use of their biometric data.
Jeffrey Goh, CEO of Star Alliance, said: “We are committed to making the customer journey better, and this strategic partnership with NEC will help us make the way from curb to gate to aircraft a much simpler, yet innovative experience for our customers.”
Star Alliance and NEC aim to introduce the first biometric solution at a Star Alliance airport hub by the first quarter of 2020.