Automated passport readers at CAI a warm welcome for travellers, defence against security threats

Cairo International Airport is the second busiest airport in Africa and currently welcomes 15 million passengers every year.

Addressing both of these challenges, the Gemalto document reader AT9000 MK2 rapidly authenticates ICAO-compliant passports as well as other official documents such ID cards, visas and driver's licenses. A simple scanning of documents at virtually any orientation enables quick operation by staff. The reader automatically detects and checks document security features, including those visible under UV and IR light. Anti-glare technology minimises the interference that can be caused by materials such as shiny laminates.

"Cairo International Airport is Egypt's most important gateway for business visitors, tourists and citizens returning home," Magdy Ishak, chairman of Cairo Airport Co. "Investment in Gemalto's highly efficient document readers demonstrates our commitment to both enhancing the traveller experience and protecting Egypt against ID fraud."

"Border control is an important first impression that a country makes on its overseas visitors," said Mohamad Eit, regional manager for identity management system in Middle East for Gemalto. "The automated document readers will put Cairo International Airport at the leading edge of fast, accurate authentication of travel documents, helping authorities strike the right balance between a warm welcome for legitimate passengers and water-tight defence against security threats."