New electronic screening measures have been put in place at LF Wade International Airport for United States citizens travelling back to the US.

US Customs and Border Protection has announced the introduction of enhanced passenger processing, which uses facial comparison technology to deliver a “touchless, secure and efficient” inspection procedure for US citizens.

The new equipment is intended to improve security and streamline the pre-clearance experience.

Marissa Singh, the acting port director of CBP Bermuda Pre-clearance, said the launch of EPP in Bermuda was a “pivotal moment” in the department’s work.

She said: “This technology not only significantly strengthens security measures but also delivers a faster and more modern departure experience for US citizens travelling to the United States.

“By leveraging cutting-edge capabilities, we are better equipped to identify and mitigate potential threats, allowing our officers to provide more focused attention to each traveller.

“With EPP in place, this will also streamline the movement of all other processing queues.”

The EPP technology is designed to verify a passenger’s identity within seconds, allowing US citizens to move securely through the inspection process and allowing officers to focus on traveller interviews rather than administrative work.

Skyport, the LF Wade International Airport operator, invested in bringing EPP to Bermuda after seeing the system’s benefits first-hand during a visit to the US pre-clearance operation at Aruba’s Queen Beatrix International Airport.

Aaron Adderley, the president of Skyport, said: “Skyport is committed to investing in technologies that support frictionless travel for all passengers.

“EPP represents another step forward in modernising the airport experience and delivering a smoother, more efficient journey for US citizens departing Bermuda.”

While EPP is now operational for all US citizens at Bermuda pre-clearance, any US citizen who prefers not to participate may notify an officer and will be directed to the standard entry process.

EPP is also available at other CBP pre-clearance airports, including Calgary, Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, Halifax, Dublin and Aruba.