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UK to expand facial e-gates that let arrivals pass without passports
East Midlands Airport will lead the rollout, with the system planned for all UK airports by early 2027.
The UK government has announced the start of a passport-free e-gate rollout for passengers arriving at UK airports.
According to the Home Office, East Midlands Airport will be the first location to use the technology, followed by deployment across all UK airports by early 2027.
The system uses facial technology to match a traveller's photo against immigration, travel, and passport information as they approach the e-gate, and the barrier opens automatically if the check is verified.
Officials said testing showed the contactless process can be up to 25% faster than using a passport, with additional checks possible if a traveller is asked to scan their passport or speak with a Border Force officer.