US contactless microprocessor-based smart card manufacturer On Track Innovations (OTI) has been awarded a contract to support the new UniPass program initiated by Israel Airports Authority (IAA). The UniPass program is intended to expedite the security checks process at Israel’s Ben-Gurion Airport.

The UniPass solution is based in part on OTI's SmartID technology and products. Under the terms of the contract, OTI will provide its secure contactless smart cards and readers to enable multiple biometric engines and data transfers with a view to provide secure data transactions.

With the new system, travellers wishing to expedite their screening process at the Ben-Gurion airport in Israel will be required to obtain a contactless chip-embedded smart card that will enable the storage of finger and facial biometrics and also include recent photos and personal information. Once enrolled in the system, a passenger will be required to present the card in front of a reader and answer a series of security questions. Once his identity has been confirmed, the passenger will be able to continue with the check-in process.