Providing seamless operations through technology is a strategic priority for Orlando International Airport (MCO) – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – and now there’s an initiative to help advance that objective and benefit millions of passengers.
In partnership with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Orlando International Airport will be welcoming travellers on select flights through a new initiative, Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP). EPP is designed to use biometric facial comparison for identity verification to increase CBP operational efficiency while enhancing the traveller experience and building towards a truly seamless journey. The process allows CBP to focus on the traveller, reducing the burden of administrative tasks.
“Technology is driving the way for more efficient passenger operations,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which manages Orlando International Airport. “Innovative programs like EPP can significantly reduce processing times for passengers, without compromising security. MCO saw an increase of more than 800,000 international arrivals in 2024 than in 2023, many of them U.S. citizens who would benefit from this program. We deeply value our partnership with U.S. Customs and Border Protection and thank them for their continued collaboration and support in helping us deliver a more seamless and secure experience for our international travellers.”
GOAA has selected iProov as its vendor to support EPP. “Building on our strong relationships with key border agencies and the proven success of our on-the-move biometric screening, iProov is excited to support Orlando International Airport on EPP, said Andrew Bud, Founder and CEO, iProov. “Our biometric screening enhances the ability to accelerate international arrival processing while maintaining confidence in the identity of the individual.”
EPP uses facial biometrics to verify U.S. citizens’ identities by matching their faces to images in passports, held in the CBP’s database. Arriving U.S. citizens will have their photo captured to verify their identity and citizenship. The CBP officer will engage with the traveller if needed, but the system processing of the traveller is completely automated. The traveller then proceeds to baggage claim.
Participation in the program is voluntary. Travellers who prefer not to use the facial comparison system can opt for the standard screening process with a CBP officer. The program is free and does not require pre-enrolment.
In partnership with MCO, CBP will begin EPP on select flights. MCO expects to fully deploy EPP in time for the summer.
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