Takashi Niino, President & CEO

The biometric data-based identification platform will considerably improve the travel experience for frequent flyer program customers of Star Alliance member airlines.

FREMONT, CA: Star Alliance, an airline organization, and NEC Corporation, a leader in network, IT, and biometric technologies, recently signed a partnership agreement to build a biometric data-based identification platform. The platform will considerably improve the travel experience for frequent flyer program customers of Star Alliance member airlines.

NEC is recognized among CIO Advisor APAC’s “Top 10 SDN Solution Providers – 2019”. The interoperable platform enhances the NEC and Star Alliance’s strategic vision of delivering a seamless customer expedition while reinforcing the loyalty value proposition within the travel ecosystem. 

Once employed, Star Alliance consumers who opt-in to biometrics will have a hands free and seamless passenger experience, letting them pass through curb-to-gate touchpoints inside airports. The touchpoints include bag-drop, check-in kiosks, boarding gates, and lounges that traditionally need both a boarding pass and passport. Moreover, the platform will help airports and member airlines to boost operational efficiency. The service will be accessible to people who are enrolled in one of the Star Alliance frequent flyer programs and who have approved the use of their biometric data.

The Working of the Platform

With a few easy steps on the mobile device, customers will have the choice to register in the new platform using security technology. The users are required to enroll once and can then use their biometrics information multiple times at the touchpoints of participating airport whenever they tour with a Star Alliance member airline.

Personal data, like the photograph and other identification details, are encrypted and securely stored inside the tool. From the rise, the system has been designed in agreement with relevant data protection laws making use of the newest facial recognition technology. The personal information will only be processed with the permission of the passenger. Passengers may also be required to show their passport during immigration and security procedures. Additionally, Star Alliance and NEC aim to bring in the first biometric solution at a Star Alliance airport hub by the first quarter of 2020.