New Travel Industry Coalition Pushes for Secure Biometric Journeys Across Europe
A new travel industry coalition is calling on European policymakers to create a regulatory environment that enables secure and seamless biometric journeys across Europe while maintaining strong passenger privacy protections.
The Responsible Biometrics Travel Industry Coalition, formed by ACI EUROPE, Amadeus, IATA, IDEMIA Public Security and SITA, is urging policymakers to ensure that the EU's Digital Omnibus supports the voluntary use of biometric technology throughout the passenger journey.
Making Air Travel Faster and More Efficient
Biometric technology has the potential to significantly simplify the airport experience by reducing repeated manual passport and boarding pass checks.
According to the coalition, biometric verification can improve passenger flows, increase airport throughput and help airports manage growing traffic volumes without relying solely on additional terminal infrastructure.
The technology could also allow airport and airline employees to focus more attention on passengers who require additional assistance.
Passenger interest in the technology is already significant. Research cited by the coalition shows that 74% of surveyed travelers would be willing to share biometric data instead of repeatedly presenting a passport or boarding pass.
Privacy and Passenger Choice Remain Essential
While supporting wider adoption of biometrics, the coalition stresses that participation should remain voluntary.
Passengers should continue to have access to non-biometric alternatives and maintain control over their personal information, including the ability to request deletion of their biometric data.
The coalition is therefore calling for technology-neutral EU rules that enable innovation while maintaining strong standards for privacy, cybersecurity and fundamental rights.
Preparing European Aviation for Future Growth
The initiative comes as the aviation industry prepares for substantial long-term growth. ICAO forecasts global passenger traffic could reach 12.4 billion passengers annually by 2050, nearly three times the level recorded in 2024.
Digital identity and biometric technologies could therefore become increasingly important tools for airports and airlines looking to process larger passenger volumes while maintaining efficient and secure operations.
The coalition believes that a clear European regulatory framework could help strengthen the competitiveness of Europe's aviation sector while allowing technology companies to continue developing trusted biometric solutions.
Image source: iata.org
