Delta Airlines partners with TSA for new facial recognition technology in airports (includes video story)

A new security system involving facial recognition technology is the result of a partnership between Delta Airlines and the Transportation Security Administration. It aims to cut wait lines in bag check and security.

“I think the timing could not be more perfect, in many ways, because more and more regular travelers are coming back to travel,” said Delta Airlines Senior Vice President Ranjan Goswami.

Goswami shared that what normally takes 2 minutes and 30 seconds–will now take 30 seconds, and this includes verifying your identity at TSA.

The trial is set to start for those in the Delta frequent flier program who also have TSA precheck. A federal database will compare a live photo to passport and visa images.

“We’ve definitely taken privacy considerations into account the whole way,” says TSA Spokesperson Jessica Mayle. “If somebody does not want to participate, they do not have to opt in and participate. “They really have that choice that they want to have the experience.”

TSA insists that the files are destroyed to prevent cyber threats and hacks…and that the system will speed up everything.

“If we see TSA get that kind of increase in their productivity—long airport security lines could be a thing of the past,” shared Henry Harteveldt, travel industry expert.

American Airlines will also try the new facial recognition software at Dallas Fort Worth  terminal lounges.

The new facial recognition technology launches at the Atlanta airport next month — ahead of the busy holiday travel season.

 

Zitlali Solache is a student in Florida International University, pursuing her Masters degree in Spanish-Language Broadcast Journalism. Zitlali Solache is Mexican American and has a passion for storytelling and news. She has interned for WPBT PBS, WSVN Channel 7 and STEP Univision. After graduation, Zitlali aspires to become a reporter/anchor in her hometown Miami, FL.