Passport-free border control launches at 13 UK airports

The UK is deploying Amadeus Seamless Gates at 13 international airports, letting travelers pass border control via facial recognition matched against stored passport and immigration data. The system is initially limited to UK citizens, with eligible foreign nationals holding an ETA to follow later. A pilot began October 6, and full deployment is expected early next year.

• Amadeus Seamless Gates operate at 13 airports, including Heathrow and Manchester
• Only UK citizens can use the service for now
• Foreign nationals with an ETA will be added later
• Full rollout is expected in early 2027