MOSCOW, Oct. 3 (Xinhua) -- Russia is finalizing the development of a new biometric boarding service for air passengers called "Migom," with the testing set to begin in 2026, a government official said Friday.
Russian Deputy Prime Minister and Chief of Staff Dmitry Grigorenko said the system is designed to simplify pre-flight procedures and eliminate the need for passengers to present identity documents when checking in, passing security in the departure area, or boarding domestic flights.
Pulkovo Airport in St. Petersburg will serve as the pilot site for testing, he said, adding that the airport already offers biometric access to business lounges and biometric payment options in shops.
Russians have already used biometric services more than 150 million times to pay for purchases and metro rides, receive services online and at public service centers, Grigorenko noted.
Officials noted that a series of legislative changes will be prepared to implement the project. Biometric identification will serve as an alternative to a passport during pre-flight procedures, with passengers retaining the choice of using either method to board their flight. ■
