Biometrics will make moving from one place to another much easier and the next steps in this budding technology are taking travel to the next level.
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), an organization that represents private sector travel and tourism efforts, has announced a number of biometric technology trials throughout the end-to-end travel experience.
Under its Seamless Traveller Journey initiative, airlines, airports, hospitality, cruise, car rental, and tour operators, will be able to jointly test different technologies that interconnect and work to improve the experience of the traveler.
The first pilot program will be introduced on roundtrip flights between Dallas Fort Worth International Airport and London. Biometric technology will be used for all airline security, airport and border checks, car rental and hotel check-in.
WTTC is working with American Airlines, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, Hilton and MSC Cruises as well as U.S. Customs and Border Protection and UK Border Agency on plans for this first step toward this technological transformation.
"In 2019 travelers between Dallas Fort Worth International Airport and London will be able to experience the future of travel," said Gloria Guevara, president and CEO, WTTC. "Our vision is that the traveler won't need to provide the same information or passport multiple times. Instead, their experience will be seamless, faster and more enjoyable throughout their entire journey. Biometrics will work at every touchpoint of the journey to make traveling easier for the passenger while providing border services with greater security."
Chris Nassetta, chairman of WTTC, and president and CEO of Hilton noted that this new technology is the way of the future.
"In our industry, our customers are at the heart of everything we do-we are always looking for new ways to offer them exceptional experiences," said Nassetta. "In the near future, travelers will begin to see biometric technologies that will enhance many elements of their journey from start to finish. Thanks to the support of our partners around the world, WTTC is helping create seamless experiences for travelers, encouraging the sustainable growth of travel and tourism."
Sean Donohue, CEO of Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, said that he believes this will improve the passenger experience overall.
"As we look ahead to transforming the customer experience through technology and personal touchpoints, we're pleased that DFW is part of this industry-leading effort. International airports are uniquely positioned in the customer journey, providing a key connection between air and ground transportation, hotels, and government agencies. We're confident the WTTC pilot program will lead to an even better customer experience and more efficiencies for businesses and agencies across the travel and tourism industry."
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