Understand
Roll-out begins for passport-free UK airport e-gates
Overview
A new contactless e-gate system allowing passengers arriving in the UK to pass through without showing their passport has launched at East Midlands Airport, with a full rollout across all UK airports planned by early 2027. The facial recognition technology verifies passengers automatically and is reported to be up to 25% faster than traditional passport checks.
Key points
- East Midlands Airport is the first in the UK to introduce the passport-free contactless e-gate system.
- The new technology uses facial recognition to check passengers against immigration and passport data before opening automatically.
- Testing indicates the system is up to 25% faster than standard passport checks.
- The Home Office plans to roll out the technology to all UK airports by early 2027.
- Travellers must still carry their passports, as they may be required if further checks are needed or if directed by a Border Force officer.