As the summer travel season begins with Memorial Day, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has partnered with the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) to enhance the international arrival experience at O'Hare International Airport (ORD). The collaboration introduces Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP), a biometric system for U.S. citizens returning to the United States.
The EPP process utilizes face comparison technology, allowing travelers to have their photos taken by a camera device. This fully automates the Simplified Arrival process, incorporating photo-capture and traveler auto-confirmation to verify identities biometrically.
Since its implementation, EPP has significantly reduced processing times for U.S. citizens from 60 seconds to just 10 seconds. This advancement has led to a 74% reduction in wait times and decreased missed flight connections for airlines such as United Airlines and American Airlines by 76%.
Although the EPP is quick and contactless, CBP officers are available to guide passengers through the process. Passengers who prefer not to use EPP can opt for standard entry procedures by notifying an officer.
"CBP is dedicated to ensuring a safe and streamlined entry process for U.S. citizens, particularly around peak travel times such as Memorial Day," stated LaFonda D. Sutton-Burke, Director of Field Operations at the Chicago Field Office. "Enhanced Passenger Processing and our collaboration with the CDA allow us to leverage new secure technology to enhance the traveler experience while staying true to our enforcement mandate."
The border security mission of CBP is carried out at 328 ports of entry by officers from the Office of Field Operations. More information about CBP's efforts can be found on their website www.CBP.gov or through social media accounts @CBPChicago and @DFOChicago on Twitter.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is recognized as America's largest law enforcement organization, responsible for managing borders on land, air, and sea while facilitating lawful travel and trade.
