Airports Council International (ACI) Europe, Amadeus, the International Air Transport Association (IATA), IDEMIA Public Security and SITA have formed the Responsible Biometrics Travel Industry Coalition, calling on EU policymakers to ensure the Digital Omnibus reform proposals actively support the voluntary and secure use of biometrics in travel while protecting passenger choice and privacy.
The coalition is seeking a balanced regulatory approach that enables a more efficient and convenient experience for air travelers and maintains strong safeguards around the responsible use of biometric technologies.
“The Digital Omnibus is intended to simplify Europe’s digital rulebook, support innovation and strengthen competitiveness,” ACI Europe said in a statement on October 1. “It also preserves high standards of data protection and cybersecurity. Yet the legislative proposal could place unintended restrictions on the voluntary use of biometrics by passengers across Europe.”
To unlock the full potential of biometrics in European air travel, the coalition calls for the Digital Omnibus to adopt technology‑neutral rules that allow the voluntary use of biometric data (where appropriate safeguards are in place) and offer passengers non-biometric alternatives.
Research cited by the coalition found that 74% of travelers surveyed were willing to share biometric data in place of showing a passport or boarding pass, according to IATA’s Global Passenger Survey.
The coalition’s ‘Advancing Responsible Biometrics in Europe’ manifesto outlines a balanced, evidence-based approach to biometric technologies with the aim of supporting public-private dialog on biometrics while also promoting greater legal clarity around the use of biometric data.
Coalition members believe that continued collaboration between industry and public authorities will be essential to maintaining Europe’s high standards of privacy and fundamental rights while enabling future innovation in travel.
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