Some of you may already be using the new CANPASS- Air iris-scan technology to speed through airport customs and immigration. It makes use of a camera lens that recognizes the iris and proves a passenger’s identity.
The iris is the coloured part of the eye that creates the pupil. The pattern of tiny rings, furrows, and freckles on the iris surface are as unique as fingerprints, and the new technology uses over 200 of these markers to compare with a database. The user simply looks into a video camera at a reflection of her eye, and in less than 5 seconds her ID is verified. This reduces the interaction with Customs personnel so they may focus their efforts on other, higher risk passengers.
“CANPASS-Air showcases our commitment to modernizing, securing, and streamlining the process for travelers.” said Geoff Regan on behalf of the Minister of National Revenue, Elinor Caplan. “It is another example of how the CCRA implements programs that balance security with the free flow of travelers.”
Use of the CANPASS-Air program requires a pre- authorization process. The program is voluntary and there is an annual membership fee of $50.00 Cdn. It has been implemented at two major Canadian airports (Vancouver and Halifax International) and is scheduled to open at other airports, including Calgary’s, in the near future.
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Iris-Scan Technology Helps Frequent Flyers
Some of you may already be using the new CANPASS- Air iris-scan technology to speed through airport customs and immigration. It makes use of a camera lens that recognizes the iris and proves a passenger’s identity.
The iris is the coloured part of the eye that creates the pupil. The pattern of tiny rings, furrows, and freckles on the iris surface are as unique as fingerprints, and the new technology uses over 200 of these markers to compare with a database. The user simply looks into a video camera at a reflection of her eye, and in less than 5 seconds her ID is verified. This reduces the interaction with Customs personnel so they may focus their efforts on other, higher risk passengers.
“CANPASS-Air showcases our commitment to modernizing, securing, and streamlining the process for travelers.” said Geoff Regan on behalf of the Minister of National Revenue, Elinor Caplan. “It is another example of how the CCRA implements programs that balance security with the free flow of travelers.”
Use of the CANPASS-Air program requires a pre- authorization process. The program is voluntary and there is an annual membership fee of $50.00 Cdn. It has been implemented at two major Canadian airports (Vancouver and Halifax International) and is scheduled to open at other airports, including Calgary’s, in the near future.