One ID and its benefits
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has been driving the development of One ID; but, what exactly is it and what are its benefits?
The One ID initiative “introduces an opportunity for the passenger to further streamline their journey with advance sharing of information and a contactless process at the airport based on biometric recognition.”
Where travelling traditionally requires multiple paper-based travel documents, One ID leverages digitalisation, enabling passengers to enjoy a simplified travel process using a contactless, biometric-enabled single ID across the journey. This is achieved by digitally obtaining the necessary pre-travel authorisations before the trip using a digital ID.
IATA states the two primary focuses in this area are:
- Digitalisation of admissibility ie., digitising the airline’s document checking process.
- Contactless travel through biometric-enabled identification throughout the journey.
Aiming to provide a consistent experience, the initiative works with airlines, airports, government authorities, and solution providers to develop industry standards.
IATA lists the main benefits of One ID as:
Improved passenger experience – Contactless travel with advanced sharing
- One ID would allow passengers to arrive at the airport “ready to fly in nearly every travel scenario” despite sharing the minimum data necessary.
- Eliminate the need to present physical documents repetitively.
- Reduce airport queues.
Cost-effectiveness & efficiency for airlines/airports
- Improve staff productivity with less time spent on manual ID and travel document checks.
- Automate more processes.
- Increase passenger data quality.
- Reduce processing time resulting in maximised airport space efficiency.
Enhanced security and facilitation for governments
- Increase accuracy of passenger information resulting in strengthened security.
- Reduce numbers of inadmissible passengers with improper documentation at the airport.
- Further reduce in human error with documentation checks.
The One ID initiative has great potential for reshaping the airport experience. It represents a streamlined future of travel, beneficial to a variety of industry stakeholders. However, the initiative comes hand in hand with privacy concerns, difficulties with standardisation, a required shift in investment and infrastructure, and more.
How long do you think it will be before the industry unlocks the full benefits of the One ID initiative?
At the World Aviation Festival, a CIO panel will discuss how the global aviation industry can be ready for a paperless experience by 2030. To hear directly from industry leaders on biometrics, book your ticket now.
