ACI EUROPE, Amadeus, IATA, IDEMIA Public Security and SITA have formed the Responsible Biometrics Travel Industry Coalition to push for EU rules that support voluntary, secure biometric processing in air travel while preserving passenger choice and privacy. The group is urging policymakers to ensure the Digital Omnibus does not unintentionally restrict the use of biometrics across Europe.
The coalition wants technology-neutral rules that allow biometric data to be used only on a voluntary basis, within a defined journey, and alongside non-biometric alternatives. It frames the issue as part of Europe’s wider effort to simplify its digital rulebook without undermining innovation, competitiveness or the operational gains biometrics can offer at airports handling rising passenger volumes.
The initiative is being presented as a regulatory call with direct relevance to passenger processing, data protection and cybersecurity. The coalition also points to its manifesto, Advancing Responsible Biometrics in Europe, which sets out an evidence-based approach and policy requests aimed at balancing smoother travel flows with safeguards for privacy and fundamental rights.