// BBC BUSINESS NEWS — FINANZA
Roll-out begins for passport-free airport e-gates
The new system will be 25% faster than having to show your passport, officials said
Passengers arriving into the UK will be able to pass through airport e-gates without showing their passport under a new contactless system, the government has announced.
On Tuesday, East Midlands Airport became the first airport to offer the new technology before it is rolled out to all UK airports by early 2027, the Home Office said.
The system uses facial technology so as passengers approach the e-gate, their photo is taken and then checked against immigration, travel and passport information and, if verfied, the barrier opens automatically.
Testing showed the new contactless system was up to 25% faster than using a passport, according to officials.
If further checks are needed, travellers will need to put their passport on the reader or may be directed to a Border Force officer.
Officers will continue to monitor all e-gates and offer assistance, while passengers should keep their passport with them at all times, the Home Office said.
East Midlands Airport said they expected a 'smoother, swifter and simpler' passenger experience
Phil Douglas, director general of Border Force, said: "This is a win for travellers coming to our brilliant country.
"By using state-of-the-art technology, we are making journeys smoother and faster, all while fully maintaining the UK's robust border security.