United offers DIY passport scanning app
United Airlines has become the first US carrier allowing travelers to scan their own passports to check in for international flights.
The passport scanning functionality is available to use on iOS and Android devices up to 24 hours prior to departure.
The app utilizes the device’s camera to capture travelers’ passports, and is then transmitted to a third-party credentials management company for further screening.
Once complete, customers will then be able to print a boarding pass.
"We are focused on building the most useful travel app in the industry for our customers," said Scott Wilson, United’s vice president of merchandising.
"The new passport scanning feature saves valuable time and provides customers with more options to control their travel experience."
The app is still in the testing phase and if proven successful, further enhancements are planned to streamline check-in procedures.
United was the first US airline to launch mobile boarding passes in 2007 and now offers the service at 54 international airports.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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