Accelerate and fortify travel techniques for expedited and secure journeys
The travel and tourism industry, which contributes significantly to global economies, has been severely impacted by the ongoing pandemic. More than 143 million jobs in this sector have been affected, and economies have experienced a $3.8 trillion economic loss. However, there remains an expectation that the sector is moving forward, and the urgency for implementing biometrics in the resumption of travel is being emphasized to restore its economic benefits.
The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has partnered with Pangiam, a leading security solutions company, to work on the growth of travel and tourism, specifically surrounding biometrics. The WTTC is advocating for swift action through its Safe & Seamless Traveler Journey (SSTJ) program, which aims to provide a seamless, safe, and secure end-to-end travel experience for passengers, encompassing both air and non-air travel.
The travel and tourism sector recognizes the need to rebuild in a safer and more cost-effective manner through biometrics. Biometrics provide a speedier trip through the airport, making it less problematic to maintain physical distancing due to quicker traveler pace. They are critical at this moment as they offer touchless solutions and significantly reduce the risk of the spread of the virus.
Biometric bag drop automates and secures the passenger's data, limiting interactions with airport crew or customs officials. Biometric facial-recognition solutions for airport check-in require no contact with another individual and offer additional capabilities, including temperature checks. Privacy-by-design biometrics play a critical role in restoring traveler confidence.
The sector also supported 330 million jobs worldwide, accounting for one in ten jobs and one in four new jobs created over the last five years. In 2019, the travel and tourism sector contributed $8.9 trillion to global GDP, representing 10.3% of the total. Without strong international coordination, these numbers could potentially increase to a loss of 174 million jobs and $4.7 trillion by the end of the year.
Governments and the travel industry should be poised to meet the resumption of travel demand and maximize efficiencies through the adoption of biometrics. The partnership between WTTC and Pangiam aims to deliver an enhanced and touchless international passenger experience globally across borders. The travel and tourism sector expects to provide a more convenient and seamless experience through advanced technology, resulting in better passenger service, reduced time in transit, and greater profitability for travel-related businesses.
Accountability and transparency about the policies governing the use of biometrics are critical to maintaining public trust in this relatively new technology. The SSTTC aims to ensure that these policies are transparent and that the use of biometrics is done in a way that respects individual privacy and security.
In conclusion, the travel and tourism sector is embracing biometrics as a key solution to restore its economic benefits, provide a safer and more efficient travel experience, and regain the trust of travelers. With strong international coordination and a focus on accountability and transparency, the sector can recover and thrive in the post-pandemic world.
