US Customs and Border Protection and Philadelphia International Airport rolled out Enhanced Passenger Processing, a touchless system that uses facial comparison technology to verify a traveler’s identity and citizenship while reducing wait times at international arrivals, according to the release.
The technology allows CBP officers to automate routine processing for eligible US citizens while focusing attention on higher-risk travelers, officials said.
When a US citizen arrives at the inspection area, CBP-operated cameras automatically capture a photo and compare it to images already on file, such as a passport photo. The system then verifies the traveler’s identity, runs law enforcement vetting, and creates a crossing record within seconds, authorities explained.
CBP officers remain present to guide passengers through the process and assist when needed. Travelers who prefer not to participate can notify an officer and proceed through the standard international arrivals process, officials said.
Since launching nationwide in August, CBP has recorded a 25 percent reduction in wait times for US citizens at participating locations, according to the agency. The system is now available at 15 US airports, several international preclearance locations, select seaports, and one land border crossing.
“PHL Airport is a major transatlantic hub,” said Cleatus P. Hunt Jr., CBP’s Area Port Director for Philadelphia. Travelers arriving at the airport “will feel the benefits of this new technology in shorter wait times, faster processing through CBP arrivals inspection, and the improved ability to make their connecting flights,” he said.
Philadelphia International Airport’s IT department worked with CBP to implement the system, including upgrades to Wi-Fi and networking infrastructure, officials said.
CBP processed more than 420 million travelers at US ports of entry during fiscal year 2024, a 6.6 percent increase from the prior year, according to the release. Federal officials said the agency continues modernizing airport operations to meet growing international travel demand.
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