6 Thai Airports – AOT Launches Biometric Facial Recognition System for Faster and More Convenient Services

Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT) has introduced a biometric system, or Automated Biometric Identification System (ABIS), utilizing facial recognition technology to identify passengers. 

This system aims to enhance convenience for both domestic and international passengers, allowing for faster processing times at each service point in airports. The system will officially launch on December 1, 2024. However, starting November 1, 2024, domestic passengers can begin using it, with international passengers gaining access on December 1, 2024.

The 6 AOT Airports Offering Biometric Services

• Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
• Don Mueang Airport (DMK)
• Chiang Mai Airport (CNX)
• Mae Fah Luang – Chiang Rai Airport (CEI)
• Phuket Airport (HKT)
• Hat Yai Airport (HDY)

How to Use the Biometric Service

Passengers who wish to use the biometric system can register when they check in at the airport. Passengers must consent to the use of their biometric data. There are two methods for registration:

• Check-in at the Check-in Counter

Passengers inform the airline staff to register their face in the biometric system via the Boarding Pass Inspection Machine (CUTE machine). The system will store the passenger’s facial data and travel document information in the form of a token within the system.

• Check-in at the Self-service Check-in Kiosk (CUSS machine)

After checking in, passengers select their airline and then choose “Enrollment.” Next, they scan the barcode on their boarding pass, insert their passport or national ID, and complete a facial scan. The system will store the passenger’s facial data and travel document information in the form of a token within the system as well.

Important Information

• Once registration is completed, passengers are deemed to have consented to the use of their biometric data. When passengers check their baggage at the automated baggage drop (CUBD machine) and proceed through security checks and boarding, they will not need to show their passport or boarding pass. This consent applies only to the current trip.
• AOT has installed the Common Use Passenger Processing System (CUPPS) to support all services, including biometric processing, across five integrated systems. These systems are interconnected to ensure comprehensive data linkage.
• The CUPPS systems include:

• CUTE: The boarding pass inspection machine used by airline staff.
• CUSS: The self-service check-in kiosk.
• CUBD: The automated baggage drop machine.
• PVS: The Passenger Validation System for identity verification.
• SBG: The Self-Boarding Gate for boarding.