Etihad and SITA Trial Facial Biometric Check-in For Crew

Cabin crew from across the world might be warming up for a brand new way of checking in at airports which will be a significant departure from the current procedures.

Etihad Airways has partnered with information technology company SITA, to trial the use of facial biometrics in order to check in cabin crew at Abu Dhabi International Airport. The trial will use facial recognition technology to identify and authenticate crew members, allowing them to complete check-in procedures and mandatory pre-flight safety and security questions digitally via their own mobile devices.

The new initiative will replace the current kiosk-based check-in process which requires the crew to use their staff identity cards as a form of authentication. By integrating contactless technology, biometric services will increase efficiency while simultaneously cementing Etihad’s commitment to reducing the spread of COVID-19 by limiting physical touchpoints and maximising social distancing measures. Facial biometric technology is expected to improve operational efficiency by speeding up the existing check-in process and automating crew time and attendance management, and access controls. Cabin crew will also experience a seamless and contactless check-in experience. The trial will continue until February 2021 and will provide the airline with invaluable data to explore future exploration of biometric technology for use in guest operations, such as check-in and boarding.