Enhanced Passenger Processing at Queen Beatrix International Airport

Aruba’s Queen Beatrix International Airport has unveiled a new Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP) system for passengers flying to the United States.

Aruba Airport Authority, in partnership with US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and iProov, today announced that the new EPP system is now live at Aruba’s US Pre-Clearance facility.

After completing hardware installation earlier this week, the US CBP began processing US citizens using EPP on Tuesday.

According to the airport, EPP brings a “modern, biometric departure experience designed to make the Pre-Clearance process faster, smoother, and more efficient”.

Already in use at airports such as Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Dublin Airport, EPP securely verifies traveler identity in seconds, reducing wait times and creating a more seamless flow for departing US citizens returning home.

How EPP Works

Through a brief facial biometric scan, EPP matches a traveller to their passport biometric credentials and CBP’s Traveler Verification Service (TVS), eliminating the need to present a physical passport unless additional review is required.

Key benefits include:

• Quick biometric verification matching a traveler’s face to their passport in seconds
• Group-friendly processing, accommodating families & children
• Brief interaction with a CBP officer, followed by direct access to the departure gate
• Reduced queue times, giving passengers more time to enjoy their final moments in Aruba
• EPP requires no application and is automatically available to U.S. citizens departing Aruba.

“The introduction of Enhanced Passenger Processing is a timely and important milestone, helping us deliver a smoother and more efficient departure experience for US-bound travellers, especially as we navigate the construction phases of our Gateway 2030 expansion,” said Jurgen Benschop, chief operations officer at Aruba Airport Authority.

“Together with our partners, we remain committed to innovation and service excellence, and we appreciate our passengers’ patience as we continue building a more modern and efficient airport for the future.”

While Wendell Roberts, port director for CBP Aruba Pre-Clearance, noted: “The technology strengthens security while offering a modernised, expedited departure experience for US citizens returning home.”

With the majority of Aruba’s visitors originating from the United States, the launch of EPP is seen as an important step in elevating the overall travel experience and strengthening operational efficiency at the airport.