Sydney Airport has launched a trial for a digital incoming passenger card to enhance the travel experience at Australia’s busiest airport. In collaboration with Qantas, this initiative allows passengers travelling from Auckland or Queenstown in New Zealand to complete their declarations digitally via the airline’s app before their flight, eliminating the need for paper forms during the journey.
Upon arrival in Sydney, passengers will receive a digital pass featuring a QR code, which they can present to border and biosecurity officials. This innovation aims to streamline the process, enabling travellers to exit the airport and start enjoying the city more swiftly. Tony Burke, the Minister for Home Affairs and Immigration, expressed his support for the trial, emphasising the importance of offering a seamless travel experience to hundreds of passengers every day.
The digital card trial represents a broader movement towards contactless travel, leveraging digital credentials and facial recognition technology to simplify journeys for passengers. Additionally, Sydney Airport plans to introduce 32 new SmartGate kiosks by early next year, enhancing the support for travellers who may need extra assistance at the airport.
Currently, the trial is exclusive to Qantas customers on selected flights, marking a significant step forward in modernising Australia’s travel processes.