The UK’s Gatwick Airport has installed iris recognition technology into automated eGates in its South Terminal

The technology was implemented by AOptix Technologies and Human Recognition Systems (HRS) and involved integrating the AOptix InSight VM iris recognition system into 34 automated eGates in the terminal.

InSight VM has been integrated into MFlow Track, developed by HRS for positive passenger identification as part of Gatwick Airport’s automated security process.

The AOptix-HRS approach delivers a match of passenger to boarding pass. The two companies say it is designed for ease of use and high throughput, and is intended to create secure, customer friendly passage into the international departure lounge area where passengers can shop, dine, and relax prior to boarding their flights.

“Human Recognition Systems has been deploying iris recognition systems for 10 years now and with the introduction of the InSight iris recognition solution from AOptix, we are able to exploit the full power of iris biometrics,” says Neil Norman, chief executive, Human Recognition Systems. “We are pleased to be working with our partner AOptix and in having the InSight VM integrated into our MFlow product and having successfully deployed the first system in Europe at Gatwick Airport."

“Already passengers are spending an average of less than five minutes in security,” says Geoff Williams, head of Security at Gatwick Airport. “With our new spacious preparation area and 19 security lanes, some of which are designed to assist families with young children and premium travellers, the new technology will help increase the efficiency of the security operation and provide a better service."