Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore initiated Digi Yatra biometric system trials for international passenger processing on October 30, 2026. The trial enables eligible travellers on select international flights to access contactless biometric verification using facial recognition and digital credentials.
Digi Yatra Biometric Verification Process
The Digi Yatra platform, which currently serves more than 26.5 million domestic users, extends now to international departures. Passengers joining the trial validate their identity via the e-passport chip and complete a photo verification through the Digi Yatra App. This process issues a privacy-preserving digital travel credential that facilitates biometric verification at the airport.
Trial Scope and Expansion Plans
The initial phase focuses on biometric verification
at terminal entry and security checkpoints. There are plans to expand the system to cover the boarding gate for select IndiGo and Air India international flights. IndiGo and Air India are the participating airline partners in this Digi Yatra international trial.
Regulatory Requirements and Partner Involvement
Statutory immigration and emigration procedures remain unaffected by Digi Yatra. Passengers must continue to carry all mandatory physical travel documents for verification at airline counters before departure. The trial launch involved collaboration between government authorities, Digi Yatra, technology provider SITA, Bangalore International Airport Limited, and participating airlines IndiGo and Air India.
Earlier in 2026, a technical Proof of Concept
was conducted at Kempegowda International Airport with the assistance of IATA, SITA, and key industry partners. This laid the groundwork for the current trial and reflects the airport’s commitment to adopting advanced aviation technologies to improve operational efficiency.
George Fanthome, Chief Technical Officer at Bangalore International Airport Limited, described the extension of Digi Yatra to international flights as a step toward more efficient and digitally enabled travel experiences.
