Case Study: Philadelphia International Airport streamlines biometric exit with SITA Smart Path

Philadelphia International Airport partners with SITA for US biometric exit

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) sought to implement a biometric exit solution to fulfill a congressional mandate for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The challenge was to automate the passenger identity verification process for international departures without disrupting the flow of travel, turning a regulatory requirement into an opportunity to improve efficiency. PHL partnered with vendor SITA to find a suitable technology solution.

SITA implemented its Smart Path biometric solution, powered by the NEC I: Delight platform, at 25 boarding gates. This allowed passengers to verify their identity and board in seconds using facial recognition, eliminating the need for physical documents. The implementation was highly successful, with a very high number of passengers using the system and reporting a positive experience. SITA's integrated approach ensured seamless operation with the airport's existing common-use systems, establishing a platform for future biometric applications.

Philadelphia International Airport

Keith Brune

Chief Operating Officer