S'poreans departing Thailand can use facial recognition from Dec. 1, 2024, no need boarding passes

Six airports in Thailand will be implementing an automated biometric identification system using facial recognition technology for international passengers starting from Dec. 1, 2024, Bangkok Post reported.

Domestic passengers will be able to do so from Nov. 1.

The six airports that will be implementing this new system are:

• Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK)
• Don Mueang International Airport (DMK)
• Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX)
• Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI)
• Phuket International Airport (HKT)
• Hat Yai International Airport (HDY)

According to Airports Authority of Thailand (AOT) director Kirati Kitmanawat, passengers will only need to show their passport once during check-in.

How it works

During counter check-in or self check-in, passengers just need to allow access to their biometric identification information.

After which, passengers will not be required to show their passport and boarding passes to clear the boarding gate.

Each registration is for only one journey.

Tourists to Thailand up

There has been an almost 20 per cent increase in passengers using the airports in September and October 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.

The numbers are expected to increase in 2025.

Top photos via Google Maps