Suvarnabhumi Airport unveiled its latest innovation in passport control technology, the Automatic Channel, with a notable test conducted by Wisanu Prasarttong-Osoth, chairman of Airports of Thailand (AOT), ahead of its official launch. The system, designed to alleviate congestion at immigration checkpoints, underwent real-world testing by Wisanu before its debut yesterday.
During a pre-flight test on TG415 bound for Malaysia, Wisanu experienced firsthand the capabilities of the state-of-the-art system, which marks a significant upgrade from its predecessor operational for over 15 years, solely catering to Thai nationals. The initiative, driven by AOT’s commitment to enhancing efficiency, aims to address long-standing issues stemming from outdated technology and staffing shortages that have tarnished Thailand’s tourism reputation.
With Suvarnabhumi Airport poised as a pivotal gateway for tourists and investors, the government, led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, has prioritized its transformation into the region’s premier aviation hub. AOT’s investment in the Automatic Channel project, involving the installation of 56 new machines initially, replaces the existing 16, signaling a robust effort to modernize and streamline passenger processing while upholding stringent security protocols.
Wisanu emphasized the system’s ability to process both Thai and foreign nationals at a rapid rate of four individuals per minute, with a seamless two-step process involving passport scanning and facial recognition. This continuous flow mechanism eliminates the need for passengers to undergo checks individually, ensuring a smoother experience for travelers.
Currently undergoing testing, the Automatic Channel is slated for full implementation by July, with plans for expansion to immigration checkpoints at international arrivals in Suvarnabhumi and other key airports including Don Mueang, Phuket, and Chiang Mai.
In conclusion, Wisanu underscored the system’s potential to significantly enhance passenger flow management while maintaining top-notch security standards, reflecting AOT’s commitment to elevating Suvarnabhumi’s operational efficiency and reputation as a leading aviation hub.