Thailand is taking a major step forward in modernizing its airports by introducing a new facial recognition system that will make traveling easier and faster. Starting November 1, 2024, for domestic travelers and December 1, 2024, for international tourists, passengers can pass through security and boarding gates using just their face scan instead of showing documents repeatedly.
Which Airports Will Have This System?
The facial recognition technology will be available at six major airports:
- Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK)
- Don Mueang International Airport (DMK)
- Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)
- Mae Fah Luang/Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI)
- Phuket International Airport (HKT)
- Hat Yai International Airport (HDY)
How Does It Work?
Passengers can register for the system in two ways:
- At airline check-in counters with staff assistance
- At self-check-in kiosks by scanning their boarding pass, ID, and face
Once registered, travelers can move through the airport without repeatedly showing their boarding pass or ID. Each facial scan at security checkpoints takes less than 10 seconds, significantly reducing wait times.
Important Details to Know
- Currently, the biometric data is valid for only 24 hours (one journey)
- By mid-2025, the Airports of Thailand (AOT) plans to extend this validity to two years
- Passengers must give consent to share their information
- The system will first launch for domestic flights (November 1)
- International travelers can use it starting December 1
Benefits for Travelers
- Shorter waiting times at security and boarding gates
- No need to repeatedly show documents
- The smoother, less stressful airport experience
- Faster processing through security checkpoints
Tips for Using the System
- Check with your airline to confirm if they offer this service
- Consider using web check-in if available
- Arrive early for your first time using the system
- Be prepared to register again for each trip until the two-year validity period starts in 2025
Also Read: Hong Kong Records 155% Growth in Indian Tourists in 2024
This new system makes Thailand one of the first countries in Southeast Asia to implement such comprehensive biometric boarding technology. The move follows Singapore’s Changi Airport, which recently introduced similar passport-free travel features. This advancement is expected to significantly improve the travel experience while maintaining high-security standards at Thai airports.
Remember to always carry your physical identification documents even when using the facial recognition system, as they may be required for other purposes during your journey.