Russia to Test Biometric Access System for Airports and Boarding
From June 2026, passengers will be able to check in for flights, enter secure areas, and board aircraft using biometrics.
In 2026, Russia will launch a pilot project allowing access to airports and aircraft using the Unified Biometric System. According to Interfax, citing a government decree, the trial will be rolled out at Pulkovo Airport in St. Petersburg and Sheremetyevo Airport in Moscow.
The service will be available both to Russian citizens and to travelers arriving from abroad, but only for domestic flights. Participation in the biometric system will be voluntary.
For Smoother Passenger Flow
As stated in the decree, this method of identification is expected to significantly speed up passenger processing. Dedicated turnstiles will be installed for biometric access. The pilot is scheduled to run through December 2027, after which authorities will decide whether to scale the technology to other airports.
Earlier this year, biometric boarding services began pilot testing at Pulkovo Airport. Digital technologies are reshaping Russia’s transport sector, making it more convenient and technologically advanced.
