The innovative facial recognition technology will enable a smoother, faster journey for millions of passengers at T4 starting this summer
Queens, New York – June 6, 2025 – JFKIAT – the operator of Terminal 4 at John F. Kennedy International Airport – has announced its collaboration with U.S. Customs and Border Protection and BigBear.ai to launch Enhanced Passenger Process (EPP) at JFK T4. The implementation of this initiative will enable a smoother journey for passengers with U.S. citizenship.
“The EPP, which we’re launching just in time for the start of the busy summer travel season, will streamline the arrivals process for millions of passengers traveling through T4,” said Roel Huinink, Chief Executive Officer of JFKIAT. “We’re pleased to partner with U.S. Customs and Border Protection and BigBear.ai to implement this system and streamline the arrival process for U.S. citizens while maintaining a high level of security.”
EPP is tailored to integrate facial biometrics for identity verification, improving CBP’s efficiency and passenger convenience while maintaining rigorous security standards. Typically, passengers without an expedited entry option like Global Entry must present their passports and have their photo taken by a CBP officer. EPP automates this process by integrating auto-capture and fully automating all administrative tasks. Upon arrival, U.S. citizens will have their photo taken, and EPP will verify their identity and citizenship status, and conduct standard system queries. CBP officers will still interview travelers and take customs declarations as appropriate, before travelers then proceed to baggage claim. EPP enables CBP officers to fully focus on the traveler. Participation in the EPP program is voluntary. Passengers who prefer not to use facial recognition can opt for the traditional screening process with a CBP officer. EPP is available to all USCs at no cost and requires no prior enrollment.
“CBP continues to implement advancements in technology such as state-of-the-art facial comparison technology that transforms the way CBP does business”, said New York’s Director of Field Operations Francis J. Russo. “Leveraging innovation and collaboration with CEO Roel Huinink and his team at Terminal 4 CBP is essential to our collaborative efforts to effectively process lawful travel and promote the growth of the U.S. economy while maintaining the highest security standards.”
This partnership represents JFKIAT’s latest technology solution implemented in the $1.5B transformation of T4, which has ushered in impactful investments in both the physical and digital aspects of the terminal. As part of the project, JFKIAT initiated a significant infrastructure expansion and upgrades to support continuous growth in T4’s passenger traffic, which reached a record number of 27.7M in 2024 alone. The transformation is enabling seamless operations, advanced sustainability initiatives, and cutting-edge technologies to innovate the terminal’s systems for the future. JFKIAT has also worked closely with its government agency partners to leverage innovation to improve passenger wait times, implementing new technology solutions, promoting programs such as mobile passport control, and increasing staffing levels across terminal operations. In anticipation of the busy summer travel season, JFKIAT is also implementing several solutions to enable a smoother, more convenient journey for passengers, including a cart service and tracking solution in partnership with Volan to transport passengers who need assistance, introducing new, dynamic digital signage throughout the building, and more.
“As we invest $30 billion to modernize our airports, including $19 billion at JFK, initiatives like EPP reflect our commitment to a world-class customer experience,” said Sarah McKeon, Aviation Director at the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey. “By leveraging smart technology and strong partnerships, we’re streamlining arrivals for U.S. citizens while maintaining the highest standards of safety and security.”
“BigBear.ai is proud to support John F. Kennedy International Airport – Terminal 4 with proven facial comparison solutions for the Enhanced Passenger Process,” said Kevin McAleenan, CEO of BigBear.ai. “Our mission is to help modernize airport operations by enhancing both efficiency and security, ensuring a seamless and safe experience for travelers and airport partners alike.”
About JFKIAT
JFK International Air Terminal, LLC. (JFKIAT) is the operator of Terminal 4 at John F. Kennedy International Airport, one of the most active air terminals in the New York area, serving 22 international and domestic airlines with an annual passenger volume of more than 27 million travelers in 2024. In 2017 Terminal 4 became the first existing airport terminal in the U.S. to receive LEED Gold certification by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) for operations and maintenance, and in 2022 it became the first air terminal in the U.S. to receive Platinum recognition for pre-existing air terminals. The terminal’s expansive Retail Hall offers an unparalleled experience for travelers with a wide range of food and beverage and retail options, from chic to upscale and from convenience stores, to electronics, accessories, and gifts. Terminal 4 was the first air terminal in North America operated by a private management company. JFKIAT’s managing member is Schiphol USA Inc., a U.S. affiliate of Royal Schiphol Group.
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