ACI EUROPE joins industry coalition calling for EU rules to enable secure, seamless biometric journeys

ACI EUROPE has joined Amadeus, IATA, IDEMIA Public Security and SITA in launching the Responsible Biometrics Travel Industry Coalition, calling on EU policymakers to ensure the EU Digital Omnibus enables the voluntary and secure use of biometrics in travel whilst safeguarding passenger choice, privacy, and fundamental rights.

The coalition is seeking a fair regulatory approach that enables a more efficient and convenient experience for air travellers and maintains strong safeguards around the responsible use of biometric technologies. However, in its current form, the Digital Omnibus – whilst intending to simplify Europe’s digital rulebook – may place unintended restrictions on the voluntary use of biometrics by passengers across Europe. 

The coalition is calling for a balanced, technology-neutral regulatory framework that supports the voluntary use of biometric data where appropriate safeguards are in place, while ensuring passengers retain access to non-biometric alternatives. It also stresses that passengers must be able to choose whether to share their biometric data and request its deletion at any time, with its use limited to a defined journey.

Through its ‘Advancing Responsible Biometrics in Europe’ Manifesto, the coalition aims to strengthen dialogue between industry and public authorities, promote legal clarity and support responsible innovation. By adopting technology-neutral rules that allow the voluntary use of biometric data with appropriate safeguards, Europe can make better use of existing airport infrastructure and strengthen Europe’s competitiveness.

The Manifesto aims to:

• Encourage cooperation between industry and public authorities to manage growing passenger numbers, make better use of airport capacity and strengthen Europe’s transport 
  and tourism sectors.
  
• Clarify the rules on biometric data to support the responsible use of technologies that 
  improve the passenger experience.

Find out more here.