Delta unveils facial recognition services at Atlanta

Travellers can pass through airport ‘hands- and device-free’

Delta has introduced facial recognition services at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport so eligible travellers can pass through the hub “hands- and device-free”.

The service is available for Delta customers enrolled in TSA PreCheck (Transportation Security Administration) programme from next month.

Customers with the Fly Delta app and a TSA PreCheck membership will soon be able to visit a new dedicated bag drop lobby on the lower level of Atlanta’s Domestic South Terminal, pass through the security checkpoint, and board their plane at the gate using only their “digital identity” – made up of a customer’s SkyMiles Member number, passport number and Known Traveller Number.

Byron Merritt, Delta’s brand experience design vice-president, said: “Delta has been a leader in testing and implementing facial recognition technology since 2018 as part of our vision for building airports that are effortless.

“The launch of Atlanta’s express lobby and bag drop is the latest step in our commitment to listening and innovating for our customers.”

The new service streamlines the steps required to check a bag and saves customers an average of more than two minutes by allowing them to avoid the queues inside the main airport lobby.