New Travel Industry Coalition Calls for EU Digital Omnibus to Enable Secure, Seamless Biometric Journeys

A group of major travel and technology stakeholders — ACI EUROPE, Amadeus, IATA, IDEMIA Public Security, and SITA — have announced the creation of the Responsible Biometrics Travel Industry Coalition.

Purpose
- Advocate for a balanced regulatory framework under the EU’s upcoming Digital Omnibus.
- Ensure biometrics in travel remain voluntary, secure, and privacy‑focused.
- Protect passenger choice while enabling innovation and efficiency in air travel.

Why Biometrics Matter
- Seamless travel: Reduces repeated manual document checks.
- Operational efficiency: Improves passenger flows, throughput, and use of existing airport infrastructure.
- Scalability: Helps airports manage peak traffic and growth.
- Competitiveness: Supports Europe’s position as a hub for innovation in aviation and technology.

Privacy & Passenger Choice
- Biometrics must be voluntary and limited to a defined journey.
- Passengers should always have the option to delete their data or choose non‑biometric alternatives.
- According to IATA’s Global Passenger Survey, 74% of travelers are willing to share biometric data instead of showing a passport or boarding pass.

The Manifesto – Advancing Responsible Biometrics in Europe
The coalition’s manifesto calls for:
- Technology‑neutral rules that allow voluntary biometric use.
- Public‑private dialogue to address growing passenger volumes and limited airport capacity.
- Legal clarity to encourage responsible deployment and investment in biometric solutions.

This initiative positions Europe to potentially lead globally in biometric regulation, balancing innovation with fundamental rights and privacy.