Biometric Experience by VINCI Airports for smoother travel
Biometric Experience by VINCI Airports – an innovation project supported by the European Union as part of the NextGenerationEU programme – uses biometric technology to improve airports’ quality of service and passenger experience. This innovative, facial recognition-based solution saves passengers from having to show their travel documents at several checkpoints. It was rolled out at a number of airports in the network in 2024 – London Gatwick in the United Kingdom, along with Funchal airport in Madeira and the Azores airports in Portugal. The process enables paperless, contactless passenger processing and ensures full confidentiality, as all passenger data is deleted after the flight takes off.
New security screening standards
VINCI Airports rolled out next-generation security screening equipment – compliant with the new ‘Standard 3’ requirements – at all the airports it operates in the United Kingdom (London Gatwick, Edinburgh and Belfast International). The introduction of this technology means passengers can keep liquids and electronics in their hand luggage when passing through security, simplifying and enhancing the passenger experience.
Harnessing AI to improve punctuality and reduce CO2 emissions
VINCI Airports teamed up with technological partners to test Smart Turnaround – an AI-powered solution designed to optimise aircraft ground handling operations – in the United Kingdom and Portugal in 2024. A system records key events – such as the aircraft’s arrival at the stand, connection to the air bridge and boarding – and monitors use of the APU to make sure it is off when the aircraft is stationary. The goal is twofold: to improve flight punctuality and reduce CO2 emissions.