John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) joins the list of airports adopting the advanced biometric passenger processing system, although the technology is currently available exclusively to U.S. citizens.
American Airlines, a pioneer in implementing this innovation, has introduced the new EPP system (Enhanced Passenger Processing) at Terminal 8 in collaboration with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the federal agency responsible for securing U.S. borders. The goal is to make travel safer, faster, and contactless.
According to sources close to CBP, the system uses facial recognition to match the traveler’s live image with the photo on their passport in real time, streamlining entry into the United States for American citizens. Diane J. Sabatino, Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner of CBP, explained that the agency is committed to enhancing national security and facilitating lawful travel through advanced technologies and mobile applications, transforming airport inspections into a seamless, contactless process. This approach enables quicker risk identification and more efficient processing of authorized visitors.
The EPP allows U.S. travelers to complete a thorough customs assessment, including biometric verification and compliance with regulatory requirements, before even meeting a CBP officer, thus reducing wait times and improving the overall inspection experience. Among its advantages are ease of use with no need for pre-enrollment, full compliance with security standards, and support for airport modernization.
Until now, EPP had been available at major international hubs such as Orlando, Dallas Fort Worth, Denver, and Seattle-Tacoma, but the launch at JFK significantly expands the network of airports embracing this innovation.
