The Aruba Tourism Authority (ATA), in collaboration with the Office of the Minister of Tourism and Public Health, has announced significant progress in the development of the Aruba Happy One Pass (AHOP) program. Slated for launch in March of 2024, AHOP aims to offer a streamlined, secure, and efficient experience for visitors arriving at Queen Beatrix International Airport.
AHOP is a digital travel credential system that enables travelers to store their data on personal mobile devices. This approach allows visitors to complete pre-boarding verification and cross border checkpoints smoothly without presenting physical passports.
The system works by converting physical passports into digital credentials that are verifiable on travelers’ mobile devices. At immigration checkpoints, additional biometric checks are conducted, matching travelers to their passport images through facial recognition technology. This process not only expedites border control but also minimizes risks related to identity theft and fraud.
The development of AHOP builds on a collaborative effort involving ATA, Immigration Aruba, SITA, and Indicio, with the organizations having announced a successful trial earlier this year. The program aligns with standards set by the International Air Transport Association and the International Civil Aviation Organization. Its foundation in open-source technologies from the Hyperledger Foundation ensures interoperability and could help to set a new benchmark in the travel industry.
Dangui Oduber, Aruba’s Minister of Tourism and Public Health, sees AHOP as more than a travel facilitation tool; it’s a catalyst for broader digital transformation across the island’s tourism sector. The program’s success could extend its application to various sectors, including hospitality and event services, thereby reinforcing Aruba’s position as a leader in the global tourism industry.
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November 20, 2023 – by the Mobile ID World Editorial Team
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