Aviation aims for seamless journeys with digital identity

The International Air Transport Association, technology partners and a number of airlines and airports in the Asia-Pacific region have successfully demonstrated the use of contactless, biometric-based digital identity replacing paper documentation for international air travel. IATA is confident that the technology can lead to more efficient, secure and seamless passenger journeys in the future, without the need for repeated document checks.

The proof-of-concept trials involved Japan Airlines from Tokyo-Haneda to Hong Kong and onto a European airport; Air New Zealand between Auckland and Hong Kong; and Indian low-cost carrier IndiGo from Bengaluru Airport.

The trials involved the use of a digital identity stored in different mobile wallets, with biometric verification replacing manual paper document checks at airport touchpoints, enabling a seamless, contactless “tap-and-go” experience, says IATA. Digital wallets demonstrated included Apple Wallet, Google Wallet, Air New Zealand Wallet, India’s Digi Yatra, Face Express by NEC, open-source Multipaz and SITA Wallet.

The Japan Airlines trial was designed to test the technology on connecting international journeys with a transfer. Passengers shared identity data in advance using digital wallets, allowing biometric processing at departure and transfer points, with an interoperable tap-and-go solution used at the European airport. Identity data was successfully reused across multiple airports and airlines, demonstrating interoperability across providers.

The IndiGo trial was designed to demonstrate interoperability across providers, including India’s Digi Yatra national identity scheme and international wallets.

The Air New Zealand trial involved an airline-managed identity, with passengers using the airline’s digital wallet to share identity data during booking and check-in, enabling remote biometric enrolment and contactless processing at airport and customs touchpoints.

“Our ambition is to make travel easier from start to finish. That means fewer document checks, less time queueing and a smoother experience overall,” Air New Zealand chief customer and digital officer Jeremy O’Brien says. “The trial shows how digital identity could help create a more seamless journey, while also improving security through encrypted data and customer-controlled information sharing.”

Air New Zealand says it is now looking at a broader pilot across different airports, with Australia a key focus for the next phase.

During all three proof-of-concept trials, passengers were able to securely share identity data in advance to facilitate their travel and benefited from seamless journeys, without the need for frequent passport checks.

“We have proven that digital identity for international travel works securely and efficiently,” IATA director general Willie Walsh says, highlighting the potential for improved security, smoother journeys and greater efficiency.

Considerable work still needs to be done to make contactless biometric travel a reality, however, with co-ordinated work by governments around the world required, according to IATA.

“Governments need to establish the legal, operational and technical foundations to issue digital travel credentials — secure digital versions of passports — as part of national digital identity programs. They also need to ensure border, visa and travel authorisation systems are ready to accept and verify DTCs issued by other states,” Walsh says.

“They also need to work with the industry, other governments and international organisations to ensure the interoperable use of DTCs on a global scale. IATA notes that paper-based solutions will remain available in the future to ensure accessibility for all travellers.

“Secure digital versions of passports will make travel more secure and more efficient. By sharing identity data in advance, checks can be completed earlier, reducing the need for document checks at airports and cutting queues.”

He adds: “Industry collaboration has shown digital identity works in practice. The next step is for governments to put the frameworks in place to integrate digital identity into global travel processes.”