Chicago airport introduces biometric tech for faster international arrivals

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GLOBAL INDUSTRY NEWS

Kristi Noem, Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security | Wikimedia

By Sky Industry News

Jun 19, 2025

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.

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Despite the speed and touchless nature of EPP, CBP officers remain available to guide passengers through the process and provide assistance when needed. Passengers who prefer not to use EPP can opt for the standard entry process by notifying an officer.

"CBP is dedicated to ensuring a safe and streamlined entry process for U.S. citizens, particularly around peak travel times such as Memorial Day," said LaFonda D. Sutton-Burke, Director of Field Operations at the Chicago Field Office. "Enhanced Passenger Processing and our collaboration with the CDA allow us to leverage new secure technology to enhance the traveler experience while staying true to our enforcement mandate."

CBP’s border security mission is managed at 328 ports of entry by officers from the Office of Field Operations.

Information from this article can be found here.