Surat International Airport Implements Biometric Registration for Fast Track Immigration Program
The immigration department at Surat International Airport has commenced the collection of biometric data for passengers enrolled in the Fast Track Immigration Trusted Traveller Program (FTI-TTP), according to official statements. This initiative is designed to streamline immigration processes for both Indian nationals and foreign nationals holding Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards, facilitating quicker clearance and significant time savings.
Biometric Registration Counters Established at Arrivals and Departures
An official from the immigration department elaborated on the setup, stating, "We have established dedicated biometric registration counters at both arrivals and departures sections of the airport. Passengers who have completed their registration on the FTI-TTP portal of the home ministry can proceed to these counters to finalize their biometric enrollment." Once registered, travelers gain access to e-gates at international airports, enabling expedited immigration clearance without manual intervention.
Expansion of FTI-TTP Services Across Major Airports
Currently, the FTI-TTP facility is operational at 13 international airports across India, including:
- Ahmedabad
- Delhi
- Mumbai
- Kolkata
- Bengaluru
- Chennai
- Hyderabad
- Amritsar
- Trivandrum
- Trichy
- Lucknow
Surat International Airport is set to join this network in the near future, enhancing connectivity and convenience for international travelers from the region. The official highlighted that while the Digi Yatra program caters to domestic passengers, the FTI-TTP is specifically tailored to benefit international travelers, addressing their unique immigration needs.
Benefits and Future Implications
The implementation of biometric data collection at Surat Airport marks a significant step towards modernizing immigration services. Key advantages include:
- Reduced waiting times at immigration counters
- Enhanced security through biometric verification
- Seamless travel experience for frequent international flyers
- Alignment with global standards for trusted traveler programs
This development is expected to boost Surat's status as a growing international hub, attracting more business and leisure travelers. As the program expands, it will likely set a precedent for other regional airports to adopt similar technologies, fostering a more efficient and secure immigration ecosystem across India.
