The Digi Yatra initiative is set to make traveling even more seamless and convenient for passengers, with plans to expand its services to an additional 14 airports this month. Led by the Digi Yatra Foundation, this new system wants to change how airports work. It lets passengers move around without touching anything and gets rid of paper boarding passes.
What is the Digi Yatra?
Digi Yatra utilizes Facial Recognition Technology (FRT) to identify passengers and grant them access throughout supported airports. Launched in December 2022, this system has already gained significant traction, serving nearly 5 million users across 13 domestic airports.
Expansion Plans
Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia said Digi Yatra will start at 14 airports first, then add 11 more in 2024. While the exact timeline for the rollout of these new airports has not been specified, it is anticipated that they will become operational by the end of April.
Potential New Airports
The list of potential new airports expected to join the Digi Yatra network includes Bhubaneswar, Bagdogra, Chennai, Chandigarh, Coimbatore, Dabolim, Indore, Mangalore, Raipur, Patna, Ranchi, Srinagar, Trivandrum, and Visakhapatnam. This expansion aims to enhance passenger convenience and streamline airport processes across a broader spectrum of locations.
Addressing Concerns
Despite the promising prospects of Digi Yatra, concerns have been raised regarding data privacy and user experience. In March, some users encountered issues with the application, prompting them to uninstall the old app, download a new one, and re-register. However, CEO Suresh Khadakbhavi has reassured passengers that their data remains encrypted and securely stored, alleviating concerns over data safety.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, efforts are underway to extend the Digi Yatra facility to international travelers, further enhancing the efficiency and convenience of air travel. With the support of stakeholders such as the Airport Authority of India (AAI) and various airport operators, the Digi Yatra Foundation remains committed to driving innovation and enhancing the overall passenger experience.
As Digi Yatra grows in more Indian airports, travelers can expect smoother trips. With advanced technology and a focus on passengers, travel becomes easier.
