This month, Spanish airline Iberia has implemented a facial recognition boarding system for its flights between Madrid and Barcelona. The biometric boarding service is now operational at six gates in Madrid-Barajas airport and one gate in Barcelona-El Prat airport. Iberia, which is owned by IAG, states that this service enables passengers to navigate security checks and board their flights “without the need to display necessary documents.”
This service is accessible to passengers aged 18 and above who possess either a Spanish ID or an electronic EU passport. Additionally, adult members of Iberia’s loyalty program, Iberia Plus, can utilise this service. However, all travelers must register a biometric profile before traveling, either through the airline’s app or designated airport kiosks. During registration, passengers input personal information, take a photo of their ID, scan the document chip, and capture a selfie with their mobile device. This biometric identity is then linked to their boarding pass during the check-in process.
Iberia emphasises that the registration process is a one-time requirement. For subsequent trips, travelers only need to link their boarding pass to their biometric profile. The airline clarifies that boarding by facial recognition does not impact boarding groups. Upon arrival at the gate, passengers can choose between conventional boarding pass access or the biometric gate.
Currently, Iberia’s biometric boarding service is compatible with iOS-operated mobile phones. The airline plans to extend compatibility to Android-operated devices in the near future.
