Automated Passport Control: An innovative technological solution and a collaborative approach to improving travel efficiency

RICHMOND, BC, May 7, 2013 /CNW/ - U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Vancouver Airport Authority announced today a new program, Automated Passport Control, an expedited customs entry process that will allow eligible passengers traveling from Vancouver International Airport to the U.S. to clear customs more efficiently, while still ensuring the same high standard of safety and security.  This partnership is the first-of-its-kind and aims to help travelers move more quickly through the CBP preclearance inspection process by allowing entry of passport information at a self-service kiosk.

"Increasing efficiency and streamlining processes are critical components of CBP's modernization efforts at ports of entry," said Thomas S. Winkowski, acting CBP Commissioner.  "Travelers will still speak with a CBP officer after using the Automated Passport Control kiosks, however this will allow for faster processing and increased focus on the traveler."

U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Vancouver Airport Authority worked together to implement Automated Passport Control.  The Airport Authority developed the concept and built out the technology; CBP partnered with YVR to allow this technology to be implemented and ensuring CBP security and privacy requirements were incorporated.  Automated Passport Control does not require pre-registration, is easy to use and maintains the highest levels of protection when it comes to the handling of personal data or information.  As a result, travelers will experience shorter wait times, less congestion, and faster processing at YVR.

"Vancouver Airport Authority is proud to have pioneered the technology and hardware and partnered with U.S. Customs and Border Protection on the implementation of Automated Passport Control at YVR," said Larry Berg, President and CEO, Vancouver Airport Authority.  "The Airport Authority set the benchmark for this type of program when we worked with Canada Border Services Agency to create Automated Border Clearance for travelers returning to Canada.  Automated Passport Control has the ability to set the global standard for improving passenger efficiency when travelling to the United States - and is an example of yet another YVR first."

Instead of filling out a declaration card and taking their travel documents to a CBP officer, passengers who are eligible and choose to use Automated Passport Control can proceed directly to a self-service kiosk in the U.S. Customs and Border Protection preclearance area.  Travelers will follow the on-screen instructions to scan their U.S. passport, answer the customs declaration questions using the touch screen, receive a receipt confirming their information and proceed to the CBP officer to finalize processing.

For industry representatives interested in more information on Automated Passport Control, contact your local airport authority or CBP port director for airport technical design standards and business requirements.

About Vancouver Airport Authority
Vancouver Airport Authority is a community-based, not-for-profit organization that manages Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Canada's second busiest airport, YVR served 17.6 million passengers in 2012, facilitated 261,000 takeoffs and landings and handled 227,000 tonnes of cargo. Sixty-eight airlines serve YVR, connecting people and businesses to more than 120 destinations worldwide. Vancouver Airport Authority is a dedicated community partner and in 2012, donated over $650,000 to community organizations. We are committed to creating an airport that British Columbia can be proud of: a premier global gateway, local economic generator and community contributor.

About U.S. Customs and Border Protection
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the management, control and protection of our nation's borders at and between official ports of entry. CBP is charged with keeping terrorists and terrorist weapons out of the country while enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws.

SOURCE: Vancouver Airport Authority

Vancouver Airport Authority
604.880.9815
[email protected]
www.yvr.ca; Twitter: @yvrairport

U.S. Customs and Border Protection
206.553.6944 x1936
[email protected]
www.cbp.gov; Twitter: @customsborder