U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is collaborating with the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) to enhance the international arrival process at O'Hare International Airport (ORD). The initiative, known as Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP), aims to improve efficiency during the peak summer travel season, starting with Memorial Day.
EPP employs biometric technology exclusively for U.S. citizens returning to the country. The system uses face comparison technology, allowing travelers to have their photo taken by a camera device. This process automates and enhances the Simplified Arrival procedure by verifying identities biometrically.
Since its implementation, EPP has significantly reduced processing times for U.S. citizens from 60 seconds to 10 seconds. The introduction of this technology has led to a 74% reduction in wait times and a 76% decrease in missed flight connections for United Airlines and American Airlines passengers.