The Pittsburgh International Airport recently introduced new technology that will enhance efficiency at security checkpoints and assist agents in identifying fraudulent documents. This latest generation of Credential Authentication Technology scans a traveler’s photo ID to confirm their identity and flight details. Equipped with a camera, the new units capture a real-time photo of the traveler.
The technology compares the traveler’s photo on the ID with the in-person, real-time photo, which is deleted afterward. With a confirmed match, a TSA officer verifies that the traveler can pass through the checkpoint without needing to exchange a boarding pass. “Identity verification of every traveler prior to flying is a key step in the security screening process,” said Karen Keys-Turner, TSA’s federal security director for the airport. The technology enhances detection capabilities and increases efficiency by automatically verifying a passenger’s identification.
In addition to confirming the validity of the traveler’s ID, the system also validates the passenger’s flight status by verifying that they are scheduled to fly out of the airport on the same day. While travelers are still required to check in with their airline and bring their boarding pass to the gate, those who prefer not to participate in the facial matching process can choose an alternative ID verification method.