British Airways Launches Self-Service Boarding Gates

British Airways has become the first UK airline to introduce automated biometric technology throughout Heathrow Airport with the launch of self-service boarding gates, speeding up passengers’ journeys with more convenience.

Following a successful trial last June, the first three boarding gates for UK domestic flights departing from Heathrow Terminal 5 have opened, and more than 4,000 British Airways customers have already benefited from the new technology.

These boarding gates allow travellers to scan their own boarding pass when they arrive at the gate, and then simply walk through to the aircraft. A digital facial scan of the customer is recorded when they travel through security, and when they arrive at the gate, their face is matched with this representation when they present their boarding pass, allowing them to board the aircraft.

The introduction of the new gates is part of wider investment into new technology that will enhance the experience of the airline’s customers during their time at the airport. Three more British Airways self-boarding gates will open at each domestic departure stand each week until mid-June, with a view to roll-out the scheme on international flights in the future.

The airline has also opened self-service bag drop points at Gatwick and Heathrow, and later this year will introduce an improved, more streamlined connections area at T5. The First Wing, an exclusive redesigned check-in area for premium customers which, for the first time, includes a dedicated private security channel with direct lounge access, has recently opened at T5.

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The Art of Business Travel is Asia-Pacific's leading portal for corporate travel news and views. We cover everything from airline routes and airport developments, to new hotels, meeting venues, loyalty schemes, and entertaining.