IATA launches new Timatic contactless travel product

07-01-24

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched the next generation travel documentation and verification system that supports contactless travel and enhances the passenger experience. 

To achieve this, Timatic has undergone a complete redesign, setting a new benchmark in travel compliance solutions. 

Building on the success of its predecessor, Timatic AutoCheck offers a streamlined, interactive experience that enables travelers, airlines and industry professionals to easily access accurate and clearly worded immigration information. 

The entire document check process has been automated with customized instructions for each passenger.

With passenger traffic set to double by 2040, airport processes will need to be further optimized and improved. Checking passenger travel documentation is one of the most time-consuming tasks that will benefit from further automation. In addition, Timatic AutoCheck's new features will also play a key role in supporting the industry in the transition to contactless travel.

IATA's latest Global Passenger Survey (GPS) revealed that complex visa requirements deter travelers, who want a convenient and digital online visa process. In addition, many are willing to share information from their travel documents to expedite immigration procedures at airports.

Thirty-six percent of travelers stated that immigration requirements had deterred them from traveling to a particular destination. The complexity of the process was cited as the main deterrent by 49% of travelers, 19% cited costs and 8% cited privacy concerns.

When visas are required, 66% of travelers want to obtain them online before traveling, 20% prefer to go to the consulate or embassy and 14% at the airport.

Eighty-seven percent of travelers indicated they would share their immigration information to expedite the airport arrival process, up from 83% in 2022.

Leading DCS providers such as Amadeus, Hitit and Sabre, along with several airlines and Star Alliance are already working with IATA to upgrade to the new Timatic AutoCheck, taking the next step towards a seamless travel experience and contactless travel.

Timatic has been providing users with reliable, real-time information on documentation required for international travel since its inception in the 1960s. To do so, IATA relies on a variety of sources, including governments, airlines and airports. 

The accuracy of this data is key to ensuring that the correct information is provided to both airlines and passengers. More than one billion passenger document checks are performed annually through Timatic.