Miami International Airport opened its newly renovated passport clearance facility in Concourse E with one special feature — facial recognition. The facility is the first in the United States completely dedicated to expedited passport screening via facial recognition. The technology uses a camera station to match a traveler’s face to a passport.

“Miami International Airport, in partnership with CBP, has introduced yet another cutting-edge enhancement that improves the international arrival experience for visitors to our community. Congratulations to the Miami-Dade Aviation Department and our federal partners for continuing to simplify passport screening at Florida’s busiest international gateway,” said Carlos Gimenez, mayor, Miami-Dade County.

The enhancement allows for faster processing and the facility screens as many as 10 passengers per minute with the technology. In addition to expedited screening, the facility also reduces the walking distance for Concourse E and F passengers, who previously only accessed the Concourse D passport hall, easing travel in one of the busiest arrivals facilities in the United States.

“Aside from welcoming 96 percent of all visitors to Miami, our airport also welcomes 70 percent of international passengers to Florida. With improvements like the new Concourse E passport clearance facility, MIA continues to deliver on its commitment to providing a world-class experience for travelers,” said Rebeca Sosa, chairperson, Miami-Dade County Economic Development and Tourism Committee.

Another new amenity MIA offers passengers is an update to the MIA Airport Official app, allowing users seamless access to Mobile Passport Control and CBP forms, making MIA the first airport in the world to do so with the CBP’s blessing.