– By Siddharth Sharma
The Indian aviation sector is witnessing a remarkable transformation driven by digitalisation and the need for enhanced passenger experiences. As the nation prepares to handle 1 billion trips annually, the need to implement technologies that can accommodate this growth while ensuring safety and convenience is now more than ever.
Just a decade ago, travellers going on a two-hour domestic flight were required to arrive at the airport two to three hours before time. This meant encountering long lines for boarding passes, identification checks, baggage submission, and security clearance – each step draining the excitement from the journey before it even began. However, digital advancements like facial authentication technology and Decentralized Digital Credentials have revolutionised airport operations, allowing travellers to move seamlessly from entry checks to boarding in a matter of minutes. Passengers can now conveniently create their Verified Credentials from home, share their travel details with the origin airport, and arrive fully travel-ready. This seamless process enables quick passage through security and boarding gates, minimizing the need for physical documents and reducing congestion.
As airports increasingly embrace digital innovation, India is now positioning itself to lead the world with its vision of a fully biometric-enabled and contactless airport experience.
The rise of Biometric usage
The adoption of digital identity and biometric validation in India has seen rapid growth. 24 airports now use this technology, covering nearly 90% of the country’s air travel volume. This advancement is enhancing efficiency and reducing stress for travellers, allowing them to move from entry to boarding in just minutes. Globally, countries like the USA, Australia, the UK, and China have already embraced contactless biometric solutions at airports, enhancing the passenger experience. The younger generation (under 25), in particular, is increasingly turning to digital solutions, with 48% preferring biometric solutions over traditional passports and boarding passes, highlighting a shift towards more convenient and secure travel options.
India’s role in setting standards
India is not just a participant in this global trend; it is actively setting standards for the future of air travel. The Indian government and aviation authorities are keen on developing a robust framework for biometric systems that aligns with global practices. One such effort is IATA’s One ID initiative, which aims to provide passengers with a seamless travel experience, reducing hassle and delays while ensuring security through biometrics and digital identity.
With the upcoming implementation of facial authentication technology for international air travel, scheduled for a pilot project in June 2025, India is poised to lead the charge. The project will begin between two countries and could pave the way for broader implementation. Stakeholders are working closely with MEA, visa-issuing agencies and the Bureau of Immigration to ensure seamless integration of facial validation into global travel protocols. This initiative is expected to significantly reduce wait times for international flights, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Conclusion
As India steps into the future of air travel, the seamless digital travel experience powered by Verified Credentials and biometrics marks a significant leap forward. With its ambitious plans to further implement advanced technologies like Digital Identities, verified credentials and contactless biometric solutions and its commitment to digitalisation, India is not only enhancing its aviation landscape but also setting global standards for seamless air travel. The transformation of Indian airports into technology-driven hubs will redefine the travel experience, paving the way for a new era of efficiency, security, and convenience. With these innovations, travellers can look forward to a future where the journey begins the moment they step into the airport.
(Siddharth Sharma is the Head of IT Operations at Digi Yatra Foundation.)
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