Mactan airport starts auto boarding pass validation

MANILA, Philippines - The operator of the Mactan-Cebu International Airport (MCIA) has started the use of an automated boarding pass validation system and expanded the international arrivals area as part of efforts to provide passengers a better travel experience. 

In a statement, GMR-Megawide Cebu Airport Corp. (GMCAC) said Veripax, the country’s first automated boarding pass validation system, is now fully operational. 

For the new system, GMCAC tapped US-based technology firm Rockwell Collins to streamline the security check process, improve passenger experience and boost security at the airport.

The system which can instantly verify or deny clearance by using boarding pass scanners and self-biometric service, is expected to reduce queues and strengthen security, giving passengers more free time at the airport. 

MCIA currently has four Veripax machines available at the final security check for all domestic and international passengers.

Apart from implementing Veripax, Rockwell Collins will also be responsible for other airport solutions including the flight information display system, airport operational database system, and baggage messaging server.

“We understand that tourism is one of the major drivers of the Philippines’ economy, thus we want to ensure that our travelers have a positive experience when they are at the airport. We are extremely pleased to implement these airport solutions to improve our operations,” GMCAC chief executive adviser Andrew Harrison said. 

GMCAC has also expanded the international arrivals area, particularly the Passport Control area at the existing terminal. The area now covers 2,355-square meters (sqm), up from 1,942-sqm previously and the additional space can accommodate 413 passengers.

“In close to two years, the existing terminal has undergone many changes, which have greatly improved the experience of our passengers. Through this, tourism, business and leisure travel will increase significantly and contribute to the economic prosperity of Cebu,” GMCAC president Louie Ferrer said. 

GMCAC which is composed of listed Filipino construction company Megawide Construction Corp. and Bangalore-based GMR Infrastructure Ltd., won the 25-year concession agreement to renovate as well as manage the operations of MCIA which currently has one terminal.?

Last year, GMCAC started the construction of MCIA’s second terminal to increase the airport’s passenger capacity. 

Upon completion of Terminal 2 in 2018, GMCAC expects MCIA’s total annual passenger throughput to rise to 12.5 to 13 million from the current 4.5 million.