YVR’s ITS to install biometric kiosks at two airports in Cyprus

Vancouver International Airport’s (YVR) Innovative Travel Solutions (ITS) is set to deploy 74 Borderxpress kiosks at Pafos International Airport and Larnaka International Airport in Cyprus.

It is said to be the first installation of permanent kiosks for Entry and Exit border control in Europe and is aimed at improving security and speed of service.

Borderxpress kiosks will help airports to slash overall operating costs and expand passenger traffic without having to add additional space or staffing resources.

Passengers can use the kiosks to independently complete passport control procedures under the care of Hermes personnel and with the approval of Cyprus Police.

“With today’s announcement, Pafos and Larnaka airports are simplifying and enhancing the border Entry and Exit process for both airport personnel and travellers.”

Vancouver Airport Authority president and CEO Craig Richmond said: “Borderxpress kiosks will increase efficiencies and improve the overall passenger experience at Pafos and Larnaka airports while enhancing safety and security within the European Union.”

Developed by ITS, an independent business within YVR, Borderxpress uses self-service biometric-enabled kiosks to accelerate the border clearance process without compromising security.

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The kiosk takes a picture of every traveller’s face which can be compared with and verified against the photo in their electronic passport. Kiosks also accept non-ePassports and EU Identity documents as well.

Passengers then take their completed kiosk receipt to a border services officer.

The exit kiosks are available for all travellers, whereas the entry kiosks are only available to EU citizens because of government specifications.

Vancouver Airport Authority ITS director Chris Gilliland said: “With today’s announcement, Pafos and Larnaka airports are simplifying and enhancing the border Entry and Exit process for both airport personnel and travellers.

“Borderxpress has proven its success and efficiency at airports across Canada and the US. Today, we are proud to be introducing our solution to the European market.”

More than 1,500 Borderxpress kiosks have been installed across 41 airport and seaports.

Hermes Airports operates both Pafos International Airport and Larnaka International Airport.