Swiss Authorities Collaborate with Regula on Digital ID Verification for Airports

Swiss authorities are implementing an advanced digital ID verification system through a strategic partnership between Checkport Switzerland and Regula, addressing the growing challenges of inadmissible passenger management at major Swiss airports. The initiative, which builds upon Switzerland’s broader efforts to digitize border control processes, centers on the MatchBox application that integrates Regula Document Reader SDK for automated document verification.

Checkport Switzerland, a subsidiary of Swissport International, plays an important role in verifying the travel documents of millions of passengers annually at Zurich and Geneva airports. Its MatchBox system automates document checks during online check-in, ensuring passengers meet immigration requirements before boarding. By scanning their ID with a smartphone, passengers benefit from real-time verification of passports, visas, and permits. Powered by Regula’s technology, the system processes documents in approximately three seconds, leveraging a database of over 14,000 ID templates from 251 countries.

The solution aims to mitigate the financial and logistical burdens airlines face under INAD regulations, which govern inadmissible passengers. Airlines are penalized when passengers are denied entry at their destination due to invalid documentation, with fines and repatriation costs presenting significant challenges. A recent survey by Regula revealed that nearly 30 percent of identity fraud-related costs in aviation are tied to such penalties. Since its launch, MatchBox has verified 1.5 million travel documents, with 86 percent processed in fully automated mode, significantly reducing operational costs for airlines.

“At Regula, we work non-stop to empower companies around the world with advanced and reliable tools that make document verification—even of large volumes of passengers—seamless and efficient,” stated Ihar Kliashchou, Chief Technology Officer at Regula. He emphasized that the collaboration with Checkport simplifies compliance while enhancing security and operational efficiency for passengers and airline operators alike.

Beyond passenger document verification, Checkport Switzerland also specializes in aviation security and cargo validation services. The company’s expertise in ACC3 EU validation and cargo security reinforces its leadership in ensuring compliance with international aviation standards. With MatchBox, Checkport not only strengthens its position in digital solutions but also demonstrates how technology can address complex immigration requirements and streamline the travel experience.

This implementation represents a significant advancement in airport security technology, following Regula’s successful deployment of similar solutions in other sectors, including educational testing platforms and government identity verification systems. The collaboration between Checkport Switzerland and Regula reflects a broader trend in aviation towards digital transformation, setting new standards for integrating technology to improve airport operations, reduce regulatory risks, and enhance the passenger journey.

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November 15, 2024 – by Ali Nassar-Smith