Swiss Legislative Changes May Extend Airport Facial Recognition Technology Beyond Customs

Switzerland is preparing to expand the use of facial recognition technology at its airports, extending it beyond current voluntary customs checks to include processes such as check-in, baggage drop-off, and boarding. The move follows successful implementations at major European aviation hubs and aligns with the broader industry push toward contactless passenger processing.

This development is tied to a proposed revision of the Swiss Aviation Act, which aims to establish the legal framework for broader biometric adoption. The changes would allow airlines and airports, including carriers from countries with limited data protection regulations, to access passenger biometric data. The proposal, requested by Zurich and Geneva airports, signals a significant shift in Switzerland’s approach to aviation security and passenger experience.

Several European airports, including Frankfurt, Munich, Hamburg, and Vienna, already use facial recognition technology for Swiss flights. Star Alliance passengers can currently use the alliance’s app to board flights without presenting physical documents, a system that has been progressively rolled out since late 2020 as part of the Star Alliance Biometrics program.

Zurich Airport intends to implement biometric facial recognition for monitoring passenger flows, waiting times, and travel times. Geneva Airport has already acquired equipment capable of facial recognition for baggage drop-off, check-in, and security checks, though these features remain inactive since their 2021 installation. This development comes as European airports prepare for the implementation of the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES), which will require biometric checks for international travelers.

Under existing Swiss data protection regulations, processing facial images requires explicit individual consent. However, Zurich and Geneva airports, along with Aero Suisse, are advocating for legislative changes that would eliminate this consent requirement. This push for regulatory reform reflects a broader industry trend toward streamlined, contactless passenger processing, particularly in response to post-pandemic operational needs.

Documents obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request by consumer magazine Saldo revealed that Zurich Airport plans to develop a “biometrically enriched profile” to enhance passenger movement through the facility. This initiative aligns with similar digital transformation efforts being implemented at major European aviation hubs to improve operational efficiency and passenger experience.

Sources: TravelNews

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January 27, 2025 – by the ID Tech Editorial Team