- Philadelphia International Airport introduced a camera-based Global Entry process that replaces arrival kiosks.
- Travelers follow on-screen prompts so cameras can check identity and membership status.
- CBP plans expansion to 38 terminals at 30 airports, but has not published processing-time results.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection has introduced an updated arrivals process at Philadelphia International Airport, replacing kiosks with cameras that check members’ identity and enrollment. The airport is the first U.S. site using this specific process.
The change applies to arriving members of the agency’s expedited-clearance program for pre-approved, low-risk travelers. CBP operates the system.
As travelers approach the processing area, cameras begin an identity check. Members follow the screen’s prompts, including removing glasses, face coverings and hats to align with an on-screen outline. A completion message directs them onward; a request for a travel document or officer assistance sends them to the appropriate next step.
CBP calls Philadelphia the first airport for this process, but gives no timing results
The new system takes over the kiosk function, where members previously answered customs declaration questions. CBP says the cameras confirm both identity and membership status. It describes improved traveler flow and efficiency as aims, not as results supported by a published wait-time figure for this process.
Elliot N. Ortiz, CBP’s area port director in Philadelphia, described the agency’s objectives:
“This improved process for Global Entry members reflects Customs and Border Protection’s continued efforts to process travelers more efficiently, enhance the international arrivals experience, and strengthen our nation’s security.”
The first-airport description applies to this kiosk-replacement process, not facial recognition at airports generally. Philadelphia already had a separate CBP program, Enhanced Passenger Processing, for U.S. citizens arriving internationally. Its reported wait-time results do not measure the new arrivals process.
CBP expects to extend the updated experience to as many as 38 terminals at 30 high-volume airports, including some Preclearance locations. The expansion is planned, not completed. The agency has not provided a measured processing-time result for the Philadelphia deployment.
The program requires background checks and an in-person interview before enrollment. Members may also use the Trusted Traveler app at participating locations to report their arrival and submit a customs declaration.
