UK Airports Begin Rollout of Contactless Biometric Border Technology

20th October 2026

The UK has begun rolling out contactless border technology at 13 international airports, allowing eligible travellers to enter the country without needing to scan their passports at eGates.

Powered by Amadeus Seamless Gates under a long-term contract with the Home Office and UK Border Force, the system uses biometric technology to verify passengers’ identities and streamline border checks while maintaining security.

As travellers approach an eGate, a photograph is captured and checked against verified immigration, travel and passport records. If the checks are successful, the gate opens without requiring the passenger to present their passport to a reader. Those requiring additional checks may be asked to scan their passport or speak to a Border Force officer.

East Midlands Airport is already using the technology, with upgrades at the remaining eGates being phased in across the 13 airports. The nationwide rollout is expected to be completed by early 2027.

UK Border Force Director General Phil Douglas said the initiative would help make journeys smoother and faster while maintaining robust border security. He added that the move builds on the extension of eGate access to children aged eight and above earlier this summer.

Georges Fenergi, Amadeus Senior Vice President for Airports & Border Authorities, EMEA, said the project demonstrated how secure, interoperable digital identity technology could increase passenger throughput, expand capacity and improve the traveller experience.

The 13 airports covered by the rollout are Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, East Midlands, Edinburgh, Gatwick, Glasgow, Heathrow, London City, Luton, Manchester, Newcastle and Stansted.

Initially available to UK citizens, contactless border processing will be extended to eligible foreign nationals as the phased rollout progresses.

Amadeus works with governments, airports and airlines to develop secure, interoperable biometric systems designed to support more seamless journeys across the travel sector.