EasyJet is testing systems that allow passengers to arrive at the airport, check-in, drop bags, proceed to the gate and board—all without speaking to a person.
While many airlines have been testing, or implementing some form of biometric screening, this test at London’s Gatwick is the first time out for eliminating humans (except the passenger) from all aspects of the airport experience.
On arriving, passengers stop at a kiosk where they scan boarding passes and passports, and stand still for photos. The photo compares the face to the passport, and if your passport looks like you, you’re in—a gate opens to let you in to the bag drop, the security line and the gate. At each of those points, another photo ensures it’s still you carrying the passport.
Other airlines are preparing to go even further; British Airways has been testing a version at Los Angeles and Orlando which eliminates even the passport and boarding pass. If the robot knows you, you’re in.
So, picking up on questions being asked: Does the idea make you nervous about security, or glad to skip the hassle?
