› FOUR THINGS THAT MIGHT CHANGE AIR TRAVEL

Uber-security

To get more convenience, passengers might need to give up more information — such as biometric data and finger prints so that they can zip through security checks. Some trusted traveller programs already exist such as Nexus for Canadians and Americans travelling across the border. “This would be Nexus on steroids,” said Baer. “Customers hate the screening experience. Nobody wants to get patted down or wait in line, but they find it reassuring that their neighbours have been screened.” She says this will be a gradual process, as people become more comfortable with data, and “more willing to trust it.” If passengers were screened based on risk — and many would be bypassed — then these huge banks of equipment may not be needed. A physical check— pat down and hand search of items— could be used instead.

Smaller terminals

Giant airport terminals might disappear, even though demand for air travel is expected to grow. Arup’s Baer says airport terminals could become smaller if long lines of waiting passengers were eliminated, or reduced to a single line to deal with everything from check-in to security to boarding a plane. “We envisage a one-check concept that clears passengers through screening and airline check-in using biometric and advanced data collection techniques, permitting ongoing automated entry to the terminal building and aircraft,” says the Future of Air Travel report, released this week, summarizing findings of a meeting in Istanbul in December. “You could build terminals that are smaller and more energy efficient,” said Baer.

Shared data

Imagine if airlines, immigration and customs officials and airports were to share information. Of course, a passenger would have the right to opt in or opt out of the sharing, but if participating, it could simplify travel. In Aruba, a two-year pilot project is underway called Happy Flow, where departing passengers present their passports once and are tracked and cleared through boarding using facial recognition software. The project is a partnership with KLM, the main hub airline and airport authorities. Operated by Vision Box, the platform is 100-per-cent self-service. It is running now only for travellers flying to Amsterdam from Aruba who use European Union passports. That means the passengers can go through check-in, drop off baggage, go through border control and board the aircraft without being asked to show a passport or boarding pass again.

Road map

Instant information should be available for travellers as they set out, including finding out the highway to the airport is backed up. That information should be linked to airport information and other data points — in one place, so passengers can find it on their smart phone. “Right now, if you know where to look, there is a lot of data available already. But it’s not in one place,” said Baer, adding hyper-personalized information will be the future. Toronto’s Pearson airport has a mobile app, where passengers can input their flight number and receive notifications if there are any changes to their flight schedule or gate number.