Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport consistently looks for ways to enhance the passenger experience. In partnership with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), America’s Friendliest Airport® is further making the travel experience more efficient and convenient for travelers with the implementation of Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP). This initiative provides travelers with a quicker way to move through the international arrivals process.
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Phoenix Sky Harbor is the 23rd airport to offer this free service. EPP is a voluntary process for U.S. citizens. No prior enrollment is required. Travelers simply arrive at the CBP inspection area where a camera matches their photo to the document information CBP already has on file. The seamless, touchless process only takes seconds, further reducing the time spent at the CBP arrival area, enhancing security by allowing the officer to focus on the travel.
“This initiative is the result of the strong collaboration between our Technology and Operations teams, the airlines, and CBP,” said Aviation Director Chad Makovsky. “Phoenix Sky Harbor continues to grow its international travel market, and this exceptional new program is yet another way we reinforce our brand of being ‘America’s Friendliest Airport.’”
This is one of several services available at PHX to expedite travel. Other enhancements include:
- TSA PreCheck® Touchless ID, available in both terminals, uses facial-recognition technology to verify travelers’ identities so they can move through security without showing a physical ID. This is an opt-in program through their airline.
- CLEAR+ members also have the option to use new eGates which uses biometric verification to confirm identity.
- For those without TSA PreCheck, Phoenix Sky Harbor offers PHX RESERVE which provides travelers with an opportunity to reserve a time to go through the TSA security checkpoint line and avoid the wait.
- For those traveling internationally, biometric exit is also available. This CBP program uses facial recognition to verify the identity of departing travelers and helps to quickly process travelers boarding flights.
- In February, Early Bag Check returned to PHX. This free and convenient service allows travelers to travel lighter and more easily on the PHX Sky Train® by checking their bags before they get to the terminal. The service is available at the Rental Car Center and East Economy parking for select domestic airlines.
For more information on all these services as well as other amenities Phoenix Sky Harbor offers, visit skyharbor.com.