Airports to go contactless in major boost for UK passengers

Passengers arriving in the UK will soon pass through airport eGates securely without showing their passport, as a new cutting-edge contactless system begins rolling out.

From 6 October, eGates at UK airports will gradually switch to the new contactless technology, with every eGate set to be upgraded by early 2027.

passengers approach an eGate and have their photo taken

the system checks this live image against verified immigration, travel and passport information

the eGate opens automatically once these checks are complete

The system uses state-of-the-art facial technology to verify a passenger’s identity before the UK’s robust border security checks are carried out in full. Legitimate travellers can then simply walk through, without needing to place their passport on the eGate reader.

If further checks are needed, passengers will need to place their passport on the reader or may be directed to a Border Force officer, as happens today. Border Force officers will continue to monitor all eGates offering assistance, and passengers should keep their passport with them at all times.

Testing shows the new contactless system is up to 25% faster than using a passport on an eGate.

The phased rollout starts at East Midlands Airport, initially for British citizens, before expanding to more airports and other nationalities already eligible for eGates over the coming months.

Phil Douglas, Director General of Border Force, said:

This is a win for travellers coming to our brilliant country.

By using state-of-the-art technology, we are making journeys smoother and faster, all while fully maintaining the UK’s robust border security.

Our digital transformation also builds on our work this summer to extend eGates to children aged eight and above, making life a little easier for families.

Karen Dee, chief executive of AirportsUK, the trade body for UK airports, said: