November 28, 2025
by
Airports AI Alliance
Miami International Airport (MIA) has introduced what is described as the largest single installation of automated passport screening technology in the United States, marking a major milestone in modernising the airport’s arrivals process. The new system, implemented in partnership with US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and SITA, is designed to enhance efficiency, security, and the overall passenger experience at one of the country’s busiest international gateways.
The Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP) programme introduces biometric “face pods” that verify passengers’ identities using facial recognition. The system compares a live image of the traveller to existing passport and CBP records in under three seconds, allowing eligible US citizens to complete entry procedures more quickly.
Twelve of these biometric pods have been installed across passport control areas in MIA’s Concourses D, E, and J, P. The new technology is fully mobile and wireless, meaning it can be repositioned within terminals to respond to changing passenger volumes.
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava said the new technology demonstrates how airports can combine innovation and choice. “Because participation in EPP is completely voluntary, travellers may choose the option that works best for them – while still benefiting from improved security and a smoother, more efficient arrival process,” she said. “It’s all about enhancing the overall experience for the millions of visitors who arrive in Miami-Dade County from around the world every year.”
The programme supports US Customs’ efforts to make identity verification faster and more accurate. By using biometric matching, the system reduces manual document checks while maintaining compliance with federal security standards.
According to the airport, the deployment is part of MIA’s wider goal of improving throughput without the need for major new infrastructure. The EPP pods enable US Customs officers to process passengers more efficiently and redirect staff where needed, improving flexibility during peak arrival periods.
SITA, which provides the biometric technology, said the rollout represents an important step for MIA as it adapts to growing passenger demand. “Miami is one of America’s busiest international gateways and the door to Latin America and beyond,” said Shawn Gregor, SITA President for the Americas. “This EPP launch is setting a new standard for efficiency at the border by using biometrics to make arrivals smoother, faster, and more secure for everyone.”
The new system builds on earlier investments in touchless and biometric technology at MIA, where passenger volumes continue to rise following strong international traffic recovery. Officials said the next phase will include data analysis to assess processing times, passenger satisfaction, and system scalability.
