PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — U.S. Customs and Border Protection has launched a streamlined system meant to speed up re-entry for U.S. citizens arriving from abroad at Philadelphia International Airport.
Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP) has been made available at 15 U.S. airports since being unveiled last August, and Customs and Border Protection said it has led to a 25% reduction in wait times for U.S. citizens.
When you arrive, your picture is taken, and the system cross-references the snapshot with photos CBP has, such as your passport photo, to verify your identity and citizenship, and run law enforcement vetting.
It’s a touchless process, but officials said CBP officers will still be on hand to assist passengers. Those who wish not to partake in EPP can signal an officer and go through the standard process.
Officials said EPP automates the process for eligible travelers with no law enforcement concerns, which allows officers to focus on those they deem to be higher-risk travelers.
According to officials, the airport’s IT department has Wi-Fi and network infrastructure improvements underway to help support EPP’s operation.