SOUTH AFRICA TAKES FLIGHT INTO THE FUTURE WITH SMARTPHONE PASSPORTS

Designed to streamline border control and enhance security, the DTC merges digital passport data with cutting-edge biometric verification.

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South Africa takes Flight into the Future with Smartphone Passport
South Africa takes Flight into the Future with Smartphone Passport

South Africa is preparing to join a bold global shift led by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) that promises to transform the way we travel forever. At the heart of this innovation? The Digital Travel Credential (DTC) a secure, smartphone-based identity system that could eventually replace traditional passports and boarding passes.

Designed to streamline border control and enhance security, the DTC merges digital passport data with cutting-edge biometric verification. Travellers will carry a virtual version of their passport (DTC-VC), stored on a trusted digital device (DTC-PC) like a smartphone, and use facial recognition technology to validate their identity, often before they even arrive at the airport.

Andy Smith, Director of Industry and Innovation at global aviation tech firm SITA, emphasized that technologies like eVisas and digital authorisations have already laid the groundwork. The DTC builds on that, allowing passengers to verify their identity remotely, reduce queue times, and receive real-time updates about their travel readiness.

ICAO maintains that physical passports will remain in circulation during the transition, but the momentum is clear. The DTC initiative is designed to enhance, not exclude, with optional participation and continued support for those who prefer physical documentation or don’t use smartphones.

Crucially, digital credentials are also a step forward for privacy and security. Passengers retain full control over their data, which is protected by global encryption standards and shared only when needed for identity checks.

As South Africa prepares to integrate this next-generation technology, travellers can look forward to faster, smarter, and more secure journeys. The future of travel is digital, and it’s already boarding.

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