Abu Dhabi International Airport has become the first in the region to successfully introduce an automated Traveller Document Authentication System, TDAS, using the latest innovations on offer to deliver a smooth passenger experience to all travellers.

The new technology, developed by SITA, a company specialised in air transport communications and IT solutions, is now in place in Terminals 1 and 3.

Using SITA's Airport iValidate technology, the system automatically verifies mobile, home-printed, and original boarding passes, before passport control, helping to improve security and reduce waiting times for passengers. The new system has been introduced in four security lanes, and comprises automatic gates activated by both handheld and static boarding pass scanners. Passengers will now spend less time queuing, giving them greater opportunities to enjoy the retail, food and beverage and entertainment facilities on offer.

Speaking on the occasion, Ahmad Al Haddabi, Chief Operations Officer, Abu Dhabi Airports, said, "Abu Dhabi Airports is committed to offering a world class travel experience, so it is vital that we use the very best and most innovative technology available. We are confident that with this new system in place, the speed at which passengers move through the airport will increase, thus improving overall operational efficiency. We are working on a number of initiatives in and around the airport which will make travellers' journeys even easier. All of this is part of Abu Dhabi Airports' ongoing Capacity Enhancement Programme to manage the growth in passenger numbers ahead of the opening of the Midfield Terminal Building."

The new document authentication system ensures passengers are at the correct terminal and security checkpoint when they scan the barcode on boarding passes. The captured data is automatically validated, sent to security, checked for duplicates and cross-referenced against the airport Operational Database and the airline's Departure Control System.