British travellers returning to the UK this October half term may encounter a 'contactless border' at certain airports, where new e-gate technology will allow passport holders to pass through without having their passport scanned. The system uses facial recognition to match travellers against passport photos supplied by airlines.
First airports to deploy the technology
East Midlands Airport and Birmingham Airport are among the first to deploy the technology, with it coming into force at East Midlands Airport on October 6. Passengers flying to and from that airport this October half term will likely experience the contactless border. Other airports with e-gates in the UK are set to follow, with the rollout expected to be complete by early 2027.
The technology was successfully trialled for three weeks at Manchester Airport in October last year. It works by airlines sending Border Force passport photos of British passengers due to land that day, which the gates match against the traveller's face.
Impact on arrivals and travel advice
The new system will speed up arriving in the UK and, according to Border Force director general Phil Douglass, it will free up staff to tackle other issues such as crime, safeguarding and drugs.
Despite the development, Brits are warned that they will still need their passport to fly. Amber Moon, travel expert at Holidaysafe, said: “Walking straight through the e-gates without digging around for your passport sounds like a breeze, and it’ll be a welcomed change for those who have queued at UK arrivals before. But you certainly shouldn’t be leaving your passport at home!
“Every country has its own regulations, and as of October 2026 the new 'contactless border' e-gates will only apply when you arrive back in the UK, and only in Birmingham and East Midlands airports.
“You’ll still need your passport to check in, board the flight, and enter the country you’re travelling to, so it matters just as much. Ensure your passport is valid for the country you’re visiting, keep it somewhere secure during travel and your stay, and ensure your travel insurance policy covers a lost or stolen passport for extra security.”
Pre-travel checklist for holidaymakers
Holidaymakers are urged to do the following before they travel:
- Check your passport is valid before you book
- Pack your passport in your hand luggage
- Always keep a copy of your passport
- Be prepared if your passport goes missing
- Check your travel insurance policy
