Sky Harbor expands facial recognition to speed up customs processing

PHOENIX — Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and U.S. Customs and Border Protection are rolling out a new facial recognition system designed to reduce wait times for passengers returning from international destinations.

The Enhanced Passenger Processing program, now available at Sky Harbor, allows U.S. citizens to clear customs in seconds by matching their photograph to documentation already on file with CBP. The free service requires no prior enrollment and is voluntary.

Sky Harbor is the 23rd U.S. airport to offer the technology to its estimated 130,000 daily passengers.

“This initiative is the result of the strong collaboration between our Technology and Operations teams, the airlines and CBP,” Aviation Director Chad Makovsky said in a news release. “Phoenix Sky Harbor continues to grow its international travel market.”

More biometric tools rolling out at Sky Harbor

There are already several biometric tools being utilized at Sky Harbor airport.

TSA PreCheck Touchless ID uses facial recognition to verify identities at security checkpoints in both terminals, eliminating the need for a physical ID. Travelers opt in through their airline.

Meanwhile, Biometric exit verifies the identity of departing international passengers using facial recognition.

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