U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport are rolling out new technology aimed at improving the processing of U.S. citizens during the summer travel season. The initiative, known as Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP), uses auto capture technology to photograph travelers for a comprehensive customs assessment, including biometric confirmation and eligibility checks, before they meet with a CBP officer.
The EPP process automates Simplified Arrival, allowing officers to concentrate on individual travelers while reallocating resources to focus on higher-risk individuals in alignment with CBP's national security objectives. Despite the automated nature of EPP, CBP officers remain available to guide and assist passengers throughout the screening process. Passengers opting out of EPP can notify an officer to undergo the standard entry procedure.
Part of CBP’s Airport Modernization efforts, EPP aims to streamline traveler processing by minimizing manual systems and bolstering security through technological advancements. The modernization initiative seeks to improve national security and enforcement capabilities while providing an efficient travel experience.
"Enhanced Passenger Processing is a new secure technology CBP is using to enhance the traveler experience while staying true to our enforcement mandate," stated LaFonda D. Sutton-Burke, Director of Field Operations for the Chicago Field Office. “Travelers arriving at MSP will feel the benefits of this new technology—shorter wait times, faster processing through Customs, and the improved ability to make connecting flights.”
The EPP system is also implemented at several other major airports including Orlando International Airport, Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, Denver International Airport, among others.
CBP's border security mission is conducted across 328 ports of entry by officers from the Office of Field Operations. For more information about how these operations secure national borders, visit CBP Ports of Entry.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection represents America's frontline in law enforcement as well as being a unified border management agency globally recognized for its efforts in safeguarding national interests on land, air, and sea through innovation and collaboration.
For further updates from CBP follow them on X @CBPChicago and @DFOChicago or explore their YouTube channel for more insights into their operations.
