Thai travellers may use ThaID app for airport check-in
Thai nationals now have the option to utilise the ThaID app to present digital identification cards when checking in for flights, aiming to alleviate travel inconveniences during the upcoming new year holiday period.
With the introduction of this app, checking in at airports like Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi International Airport is said to become significantly easier, especially when paired with an airline’s online check-in services, according to Jirayu Houngsub, a spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office.
Travellers can complete their online check-in through the Airports of Thailand website for a smooth process. By using an electronically-issued boarding pass, passengers can head straight to the flight gate, effectively reducing the time typically spent waiting in check-in queues.
Additionally, a newly implemented automated biometric identification system at airports allows passengers to swiftly move through the boarding pass verification stage.
The government is expediting the rollout of its digital ID system across all state agencies to further enhance convenience.
The ThaID app proves beneficial in various scenarios, such as when a traveller forgets their physical identification card. It also enables users to notify related government agencies about changes in residence, saving a trip to the busy provincial offices.
In related news, Airports of Thailand Plc (AOT) yesterday announced that the state-owned enterprise will implement facial recognition services at six major airports for international flights starting December 1.
The biometrics-based system will be deployed at Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Don Mueang, Hat Yai, Phuket, and Suvarnabhumi airports. AOT anticipates the new technology will significantly streamline the passenger experience, reducing checkpoint processing time for registered travellers from three minutes to just one minute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
How might the ThaID app revolutionise travel experiences beyond convenience?
It could pave the way for broader digital integration, streamlining processes across various sectors and enhancing security measures.
Why is biometric identification becoming crucial at airports?
Biometric systems increase efficiency and security, reducing human error and speeding up the verification process.
What if digital ID systems like ThaID become the norm globally?
Travel could become more seamless, with potential reductions in identity fraud and enhanced cross-border collaborations.
How does digital transformation reflect a government’s commitment to progress?
By streamlining services, reducing bureaucratic hurdles, and enhancing accessibility, it demonstrates a focus on modernisation and citizen convenience.
What are the potential challenges of relying on digital ID systems?
Challenges include data privacy concerns, cybersecurity threats, and ensuring equitable access for all citizens.