How airports are using tech to speed up your journey – and why a TMC helps you stay ahead
Airport technology is advancing at pace, with new innovations designed to speed up security, streamline check-in and reduce time spent waiting at gates. If you travel regularly for business, staying on top of these changes can mean the difference between a seamless trip and unnecessary delays.
The challenge? Not every airport rolls out changes at the same time, and knowing where you’ll benefit - and how to prepare - can be tricky. That’s why using a travel management company (TMC) is increasingly essential. A knowledgeable TMC tracks these developments for you, ensuring your journeys are optimised to make the most of the latest tech advancements.
Here’s what’s changing at airports and how these innovations can make your business travel smoother than ever.
Next-generation security: no more bag unpacking
Security queues can be the biggest headache at an airport, especially during peak business travel times. But new Next Generation Security Checkpoint (NGSC) scanners are transforming the experience.
These advanced scanners mean passengers no longer need to remove liquids or electronics from their bags, significantly reducing waiting times.
Where can you benefit?
Southampton International Airport Limited has already introduced these scanners, making security faster and less stressful.
London Luton Airport has also rolled out the technology, easing congestion.
Heathrow and London Gatwick are set to follow in the coming months.
How a TMC helps: If speed is your priority, a TMC can plan your itinerary around airports with the latest security tech, ensuring you spend less time in queues and more time focusing on your business.
Biometric Passports: a faster way through immigration
Facial recognition technology is changing the way airports handle immigration and boarding. With biometric e-gates and passport-free processing, some airports are now allowing passengers to walk straight through checkpoints with minimal delays.
Where is this happening?
Abu Dhabi Airports is set to become the first fully biometric airport, where facial recognition will replace traditional passports at every stage.
Singapore’s Changi Airport Group already uses biometric immigration clearance, meaning passengers who have pre-registered can pass through quickly.
More European hubs are following suit, with trials of Digital Travel Credentials (DTCs) that could make passport-free travel a reality in the near future.
How a TMC helps: Pre-registration is often required for these services, and a TMC ensures you're signed up for biometric clearance before you arrive - saving time and avoiding unnecessary queues.
Smart airports: real-time travel updates that keep you moving
Smart airports are integrating Internet of Things (IoT) technology to provide real-time updates that help passengers move through the airport more efficiently.
What does this mean for you?
Heathrow and Gatwick now provide live security wait times via airport apps, helping travellers choose the shortest queues.
Some airports offer push notifications, directing passengers to less crowded security lanes and immigration desks.
San Antonio International Airport (SAT) in the US has introduced SAT Pass, allowing non-ticketed visitors through security - potentially useful for business travellers meeting clients at the airport.
How a TMC helps: A TMC monitors these airport tech upgrades on your behalf, ensuring you’re always able to plan the easiest, stress-free routes, taking advantage of airports with the shortest queues, keeping your journey efficient.
Digital travel credentials: a passport-free future?
Some countries are moving towards Digital Travel Credentials (DTCs)—secure, digital alternatives to traditional passports. Instead of carrying a physical document, your identity could soon be stored digitally, allowing faster clearance at borders.
Where are these being tested?
Finland, Canada and the Netherlands have all launched pilot programs for DTCs, with plans to expand the scheme if successful.
The EU is looking at wider adoption of digital travel credentials for seamless Schengen area travel.
How a TMC helps: Your TMC keeps track of which countries and airlines are adopting DTCs and ensures you’re registered for any available fast-track digital systems.
Why a Travel Management Company Helps You Stay Ahead
With airport technology evolving rapidly, keeping up with the latest changes—and knowing how to take advantage of them—can be overwhelming. A TMC ensures:
You always fly from the most efficient airports using the best tech available.
You’re pre-registered for biometric security and fast-track immigration where possible.
You receive real-time travel updates, avoiding delays and unnecessary queues.
Your routes and connections are optimised based on the latest airport innovations.
The result? Less waiting, more efficiency and a far smoother business travel experience.
Final thought: travel smart, stay efficient
Airport technology is changing the way we travel for business, making journeys faster, smoother, and less stressful. But with different airports rolling out changes at different times, knowing where and how to benefit isn’t always straightforward.
A business travel specialist keeps track of these developments so you don’t have to, ensuring every trip is optimised for speed, efficiency, and comfort.
If you want to travel smarter and avoid unnecessary delays, working with a TMC could be the best investment you make in your business travel strategy.
