Biometric access for airport staff

The iris recognition system scans employees' eyes

Manchester Airport is using biometric technology to improve security by regulating staff access to restricted areas.

In the first scheme of its kind in the UK, the iris-scanning system provided by Human Recognition Systems is used to control the movement of staff from landside to airside.

“The scheme helps simplify and reinforce the security screening process for staff working on site,” said Manchester Airport security manager Asha Williams.

“We have rolled out the biometric access control technology at terminal three’s service yard and will include two other areas of access to the restricted zone by this summer,” she said.

The first trials went ahead in 2002. Since then, 25,000 employees have had their iris details captured. The pattern is checked at single person access control gates equipped with cameras.

The system augments existing security procedures including access control cards and PINs.

The Manchester scheme is the first airport use of biometrics to control staff access. But the technology is already used at nine airports to provide automated clearance for frequent flyer passengers.

The Iris Recognition Immigration System (Iris), ­ which is a precursor to the Home Office’s £650m eBorders programme, ­ checks passengers’ details against government watch lists. Travellers can enrol for free at participating airports.