CBP launches Mobile Passport Control at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport in US

TIN news:  The US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has launched the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) in Arizona.

Mobile Passport helps speed-up passenger arrivals to the US by allowing them to voluntarily submit their passport information, as well as answers to inspection-related questions, to the CBP.

Developed by Airports Council International-North America (ACI-NA) in collaboration with CBP and their technical partners, the app allows Android and iPhone users to submit data via a smartphone or a tablet before they arrive.

CBP port director Luz Galarza said: “CBP is committed to improving the international travel experience by offering new and innovative technology to streamline the arrival process.

“Through our partnership with the City of Phoenix, travellers arriving at PHX will have another processing option to use that has been proven to reduce wait times without compromising our important border security mission.”

The free-to-use app enables a more efficient in-person inspection of US citizens and Canadian visitors upon their arrival to the US.

Customers using the app will not be required to complete a paper form or use an Automated Passport Control (APC) kiosk, which will lead to shorter wait times, less congestion and faster processing.

PHX Aviation Services director Jim Bennett said: “Phoenix Sky Harbor is excited for the launch of this new initiative.

“In keeping with our goal of providing world-class service to our customers, this programme will help travellers arrive into the country more quickly and provide them with a more efficient travelling experience.”

In August 2014, the MPC was pilot launched for eligible users arriving at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Georgia, US, and since then it has been introduced to 22 major international airports.