On March 4, 2019, the Innovative Travel Solutions (ITS) at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) announced that its self-service border control solution, BorderXpress, was the first in Canada to be updated to meet the Canadian government's expanded biometric screening requirements. Back on July 31, 2018, Canada had expanded its biometric requirements, with the ultimate goal of making legal travel to and within Canada easier while safeguarding national security, preventing identity fraud, and enhancing information
New Self-Service Kiosks: Shorter Wait Times and Greater Accessibility
The new BorderXpress Primary Inspection Kiosks use a two-step process to accelerate border clearance, reducing passenger wait times by more than 60%. These kiosks are accessible to people with disabilities, can be configured to support up to 35 different languages, and accommodate all passengers—including families traveling in groups. The BorderXpress technology is developed by ITS, an independent business unit within Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Since 2009, ITS has sold over 1,600 kiosks to 42 airport and seaport locations worldwide.
The key highlight of this change is that wait times will be reduced for those crossing into or entering Canada, and individuals with disabilities or language barriers will also be able to complete biometrics more easily.
"The Government of Canada has stated that the collection of biometric technology is a crucial aspect of its immigration program, enabling accurate identification of travelers," said Steve Hankinson, Vice President of Innovation and Planning at the Vancouver Airport Authority. "Our BorderXpress Primary Inspection Kiosks are the first to adapt to the Government of Canada’s requirements, while also providing a border control solution that combines security, efficiency, and innovation to transform the passenger experience—and this is ultimately what drives our team forward."
Rosalyn H. MacVicar, Regional Director General of the CBSA Pacific Region, added: "Facilitating a faster and more streamlined border experience is a top priority for the CBSA." "By leveraging innovative technologies and collaborating with our partners—such as the Vancouver Airport Authority—we have achieved this goal while preventing fraudulent entry into Canada."