Expert: Roberto Gomes - 10/28/2006

Question
How have the present procedures like the introduction of  computer scannable passports, e-visas, e-tickets, helped in minimizing or eliminating paperwork involved during embarkation and disembarkation?

Answer
Dear deepa,

A lot ! All this measures are a part of a program launched by IATA (International Air Transport Association) called The Simplifying Passenger Travel (SPT) Program. SPT is an initiative that focuses on the passenger and facilitating their journey while emphasizing the security benefits of processing 'known' passengers automatically, thereby freeing-up resources to concentrate on 'unknown' passengers.

The aim is to improve the passenger travel experience by replacing repetitive checks of passengers and their documents with a new streamlined system. The new system will collect the information once and then share it electronically with subsequent service providers to clear the passenger through their entire journey.

The SPT Program has built a unique multi-sectorial membership consisting of airlines, airports, control authorities and technology suppliers, all working towards the common goal of bringing the vision of "simplified and secure passenger processing" to reality.

Who stands to benefit?

- hassle free travel for passengers
- easier pre-travel procedures for travel agents
- streamlined processing for airlines
- better use of resources by airports
- efficient and secure transportation for governments

and most important... they will eliminate all the paperwork !

If you want to know a lit bit more of this program, please click on the following link:

http://www.simplifying-travel.org/

Hope this helps.
Best Regards,
R.Gomes