Hanoi's Noi Bai Airport cuts security checks at international terminal to 3 seconds with facial recognition

Starting Dec. 19, the upgraded system replaces many manual procedures with biometric identification, significantly reducing queues and waiting times for international travelers passing through Vietnam’s busiest northern airport.

Upon entering the terminal, passengers can use interactive touchscreen displays to check flight information, locate check-in counters and navigate services such as dining and retail. Instead of lining up at traditional desks, travelers can check in at self-service kiosks to select seats and print boarding passes, while automated baggage drop machines allow passengers to weigh, tag and send luggage independently.

For Vietnamese citizens using chip-enabled passports, facial recognition is integrated with passport readers to verify identity automatically. At security checkpoints, biometric gates match facial data and open within 1-3 seconds, a process that previously took 1-2 minutes under manual inspection. Passengers not using biometrics can still access the gates by scanning their boarding pass.

After initial screening, travelers pass through automated exit-control gates and undergo a second facial verification before entering the security scanning area.

Inside the screening zone, the terminal is equipped with advanced CT scanners that generate multi-dimensional images of luggage, helping security officers detect prohibited items more accurately. Body scanners and metal detectors can identify both metallic and non-metallic objects, while displaying only neutral avatar images to protect passenger privacy.

Airport officials say the pilot use of facial biometrics marks a major step in Noi Bai’s digital transformation, designed to streamline passenger flow while improving safety and overall travel experience. Traditional check-in counters and manual security lanes remain in operation to ensure flexibility for all travelers.

The technology upgrade coincides with the completion of a major expansion of the T2 terminal, increasing its annual capacity from 10 million to 15 million passengers. The project expanded terminal floor space, added new jet bridges and significantly increased the number of check-in counters and baggage handling belts, positioning Noi Bai to handle growing international travel demand more efficiently.