Thales and IT services firm Inetum delivered more than 45 automatic border control gates (ABC gates) at two Spanish airports, Valencia (VLC) and Bilbao (BIO).

These border management systems are expected to advance facial recognition and automatic document verification.

The companies worked together for the deployment of the systems at the airports.

Thales provided the identity verification and smart access control while Inetum was responsible for the real-time monitoring system and the manual verifiers.

The new smart access points (AP) have been in service at Valencia and Bilbao Airports since last July.

The companies claimed that the system will simplify the operations of National Police officers.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Presently, Fuerteventura Airport (FUE) is undergoing installation and will have as many as 36 ABC gates.

The automatic controls offer security and suitability, improving the process of biometric identity checks inside the police databases.

While being in complete control of the operations, the officers can also proceed with additional security controls if required.

Inetum Iberia and Latam deputy general manager Juan Carlos Crespo said: “This technology eases passenger management at borders by verifying the traveller’s identity and travel documents, including biometric checks. The new system ultimately speeds up the identification process.”

Thales Spain director and CEO Jesús Sánchez Bargos said: “We are proud to support the work of the National Police and AENA by creating a safe and agile airport environment without compromising the traveller experience.”

Last week, Thales launched a digital secondary surveillance radar (SSR) named RSM NG for use in air traffic management (ATM).

The radar can track up to 2,000 flights and disseminate 64 simultaneous data outputs to different air traffic control centres (ATCC).

RSM NG is equipped with a two-in-one meta-sensor and combines automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast (ADS-B) and radar (Mode S) data to provide ‘quicker’ detection and tracking initialisation.

 

Airport Technology Excellence Awards - Have you nominated?

Nominations are now open for the prestigious Airport Technology Excellence Awards - one of the industry's most recognised programmes celebrating innovation, leadership, and impact. This is your chance to showcase your achievements, highlight industry advancements, and gain global recognition. Don't miss the opportunity to be honoured among the best - submit your nomination today!

Nominate Now