Abu Dhabi’s Etihad trials facial biometric check-in for cabin crew

  • Date: 25-Nov-2020
  • Source: Gulf Business
  • Sector:Transport
  • Country:UAE
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Abu Dhabi’s Etihad trials facial biometric check-in for cabin crew

Abu Dhabi-based Etihad Airways will trial the use of facial biometrics to check-in cabin crew at its crew briefing centre at Abu Dhabi International Airport.

The trial, in partnership with information technology company SITA, will ply facial recognition technology to identify and authenticate crew members, allowing them to complete check-in procedures and mandatory pre-flight safety and security questions digitally via their own mobile devices.

The new initiative will replace the current kiosk-based, check-in process which requires crew to use their staff identity cards as a form of authentication.

"Etihad is constantly on the lookout for innovative solutions and new technologies that will drive improvements in the airline's operations and enhance the experience for guests and employees,“ said Captain Sulaiman Yaqoobi, vice president flight operations, Etihad Aviation Group. "Etihad is excited to partner with SITA to explore the potential that facial biometric services has for the aviation industry. By integrating contactless technology, biometric services will increase efficiency while simultaneously cementing our commitment to reducing the spread of Covid-19 by limiting physical touch points and maximising social distancing measures.“

Facial biometric technology is expected to ramp up operational efficiency by expediting the check-in process, automating crew time and attendance management. Cabin crew will also experience