Delta Air Lines & TSA PreCheck Launch Biometric Bag Drop

Delta Air Lines Enhances Travel with Facial Recognition Technology

Delta Air Lines, collaborating with TSA PreCheck, has announced an expansion of its biometric capabilities. This allows passengers to manage baggage drop-off, security screening, and aircraft boarding through facial recognition.

Currently, the latest implementation – the PreCheck bag-drop experience – is being piloted in Atlanta. It’s available exclusively to Delta SkyMiles members who are also enrolled in TSA PreCheck.

Expanding on Existing Biometric Systems

This initiative builds upon previous work at Delta’s Detroit hub and for international departures from Atlanta. The addition of a facial recognition-powered bag-drop represents a significant step forward.

In Atlanta, eligible SkyMiles and TSA PreCheck members can utilize a dedicated self-service bag-drop area. Passengers opting into the program via the Delta app simply present their face to a scanner.

The system validates identity against the TSA database, automatically printing a baggage label. After attaching the label, the bag is placed on the conveyor belt.

Automated machines then weigh and measure the bag using integrated cameras.

Image Credits: Delta

Aiming for Efficiency

“Our target here is 30 seconds,” stated Greg Forbes, Delta’s managing director of Airport Experience, during a pre-launch event.

“The speed will be achieved not only through the technology itself, but also because of the streamlined process – eliminating the need to locate a driver’s license or launch the app.

We are also grouping together travelers with similar travel patterns.”

Suitability and Limitations

Forbes clarified that the system is optimized for standard luggage types, such as roller bags, suitcases, and duffle bags.

It’s designed for frequent fliers who are familiar with the baggage check-in process.

Image Credits: TechCrunch

“If you come in with your surfboard, your golf clubs, Skycap [curbside check-in] is going be a better choice for you. If you’re Mrs. Johnson’s second-grade field trip and there’s 30 kids and they all have ticket problems, this isn’t the ideal solution,” he explained.

Program Adoption and Incentives

Approximately 25% of Delta passengers departing from Atlanta are currently eligible to use the new bag-drop system.

The program’s connection to the SkyMiles account may encourage more travelers to join Delta’s frequent flier program, providing new marketing opportunities.

Initial testing suggests the 30-second bag drop time is attainable. Facial recognition, with a brief mask removal, takes only a few seconds, while attaching the luggage tag proved to be the most time-consuming step.

Delta has initially set up a small area with four machines, with plans for a second bag-drop location if capacity demands it.

The machines also include features for visually impaired passengers and a boarding pass scanner for verification.

Following bag drop, passengers proceed through the PreCheck line, undergo another facial scan, and then to the boarding gate for a final scan.

Ideally, this eliminates the need for physical boarding passes or identification, though carrying ID is still recommended.

Image Credits: TechCrunch

Privacy Considerations

The use of biometrics naturally raises privacy concerns. Delta emphasizes that images are solely used for identity validation with the TSA.

It’s important to note that TSA already collects biometric data from individuals enrolled in PreCheck or Global Entry.

Forbes also stated that Delta does not directly handle the biometric data, relying on partner companies providing the technology.

While the security of these systems has been government-validated, complete security cannot be guaranteed.

Personal experience with Global Entry, which also relies on facial recognition, has proven efficient and convenient. The Delta system offers a similar experience, with the added benefit of minimizing physical contact.

However, this technology is not for everyone. Participation is entirely optional, and traditional check-in methods remain available.

Future Expansion

This is currently a partnership between Delta and the TSA. Other airlines are likely to develop similar systems, with United being a potential early adopter.

Delta is expected to expand this technology throughout its airport touchpoints, and other airlines are anticipated to follow suit.

Image Credits: Delta