Air Canada First to Launch Facial Recognition Boarding

Air Canada has become the first Canadian airline to introduce facial recognition technology for boarding identification.

Following a test period, the carrier will launch its Digital ID program for nearly all domestic flights from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) on 03DEC.

Passengers can enroll through the Air Canada app. For those who prefer traditional methods, boarding remains available using physical ID and boarding passes.

“We are thrilled to take a leadership position with the Vancouver Airport Authority in using technology to simplify and transform boarding of almost all our YVR-departing domestic flights,” said Tom Stevens, Vice President of Canadian Airports and Customer Experience Strategy at Air Canada.

“Digital identification is readily used to streamline numerous daily activities including unlocking phones and entering workplaces, and bringing this technology to the gate enhances the travel experience, making boarding flights convenient and effortless. The feedback from customers, notably our frequent flyers, during the pilot phase was very positive. We look forward to expanding this technology to additional airports.”

• Faster Boarding: Passengers can confirm their identities within seconds at a camera-equipped gate, avoiding the need to present physical IDs or boarding passes.
• Enhanced Security: The system uses secure biometric technology, with participation entirely optional and based on consent.
• Streamlined Lounge Access: The program also extends to select Maple Leaf Lounges and the Air Canada Café in Toronto, and there are plans for further expansion.

Air Canada says the program is not linked to government initiatives like NEXUS or Global Entry. Enrollment and participation are entirely voluntary, and strict privacy measures protect biometric and personal information.