A new contactless system for eGates is being introduced at UK airports, allowing arriving passengers to pass through without needing to present their passport. The rollout begins today, 6 October 2026, with all eGates expected to be upgraded by early 2027.
The technology works by taking a photo of the passenger and checking it against verified immigration, travel, and passport information. Once these checks are complete, the eGate opens automatically. This system is designed to maintain border security while offering a smoother and faster journey, with testing indicating it could be up to 25% quicker than current eGate use.
East Midlands Airport is the first to implement the contactless eGates, initially for British citizens. The system will then expand to more airports and other nationalities currently eligible for eGates in the coming months. Passengers will still need to carry their passports with them.