To fly from Zhuhai, you must first face up to a robot

Zhuhai (Jinwan) Airport began using facial recognition in security checks on May 7. Its use is currently limited to four security channels at the East Concourse but will eventually cover the entire facility.

The system supplements document verification, with both displayed on computer screen. The automated facial recognition system, in conjunction with personal inspection by airport personnel, improves the ability to detect those using another's identity documents, said a director of the Security Department.   

The state-of-the-art recognition system is noted for speed and precision in face capture and verification, as well as adaptability to changes in angle, lighting, and expressions. The process takes only one second on average, greatly increasing the accuracy and efficiency of security checks, according to an airport executive.

Facial recognition and document verification 

When the technology captures multiple faces simultaneously, it will compare the real-time image with ID pictures and send the most similar result to security inspectors. Networked to public security systems, it also allows the airport to work with police to surveil and arrest suspected criminals. 

As an international first-class civilian airport, Zhuhai (Jinwan) has experienced a huge increase in the number of flights, air routes and passenger flow in recent years. Passenger throughput exceeded 9 million in 2017, the highest growth rate in South-Central China.

Face-scanning robots [Photos by Chen Xinnian / Zhuhai Daily]