Aruba Airport Authority N.V. (AAA), in collaboration with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and biometric technology company iProov, has officially launched the Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP) system at Aruba’s U.S. Pre-Clearance facility. The new process is designed to make departures to the United States faster, smoother, and more efficient.
Following the completion of hardware installation earlier this week, CBP began processing U.S.-bound passengers using the EPP system on Tuesday. The system offers a modern, biometric-based exit experience that significantly reduces waiting times during U.S. pre-clearance.
Enhanced Passenger Processing is already in use at major international airports such as Orlando International Airport and Dublin Airport. It verifies a passenger’s identity within seconds using facial biometrics matched against passport data, allowing U.S. citizens to move quickly through the process and proceed directly to their boarding gate.
The EPP process includes a quick biometric facial scan, group-friendly processing suitable for families and children, a brief interaction with a CBP officer, and direct access to the boarding gate. The system requires no prior application and is automatically available to U.S. citizens departing from Aruba. Reduced waiting times allow passengers to enjoy more of their final moments on the island before departure.
According to feedback received by DIARIO, some Aruban passengers reported spending less than 20 seconds at the facial scanning device before being cleared by CBP officers to proceed to their gate, eliminating long lines and delays.
Jurgen Benschop, Chief Operations Officer of Aruba Airport Authority N.V., described the introduction of EPP as a timely and important achievement. He stated that the system helps provide a calmer and more efficient departure experience, especially as the airport continues construction under its Gateway 2030 expansion project. Benschop reaffirmed AAA’s commitment to innovation and service excellence.
Wendell A. Roberts, Port Director of CBP Aruba Pre-Clearance, welcomed the launch, noting that the technology strengthens security while delivering a faster and more modern departure experience for U.S. citizens returning home.
Andrew Bud, founder and CEO of iProov, also expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. He said the implementation improves operational efficiency and ensures a smooth and uncomplicated entry process into the United States, giving American travelers—including families and those needing assistance—more time to enjoy Aruba.
With the majority of Aruba’s visitors arriving from the United States, the introduction of Enhanced Passenger Processing marks a significant milestone in improving the overall travel experience and operational efficiency at the airport. By speeding up pre-clearance procedures and reducing wait times, EPP supports Aruba’s ongoing efforts to enhance airport operations, particularly during peak travel seasons.
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