Image Source: Times Now
Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport has officially launched trial operations of the Digi Yatra platform, a facial recognition-based boarding system designed to streamline passenger movement and eliminate the need for physical identity checks. The initiative, part of a nationwide rollout led by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, aims to deliver a seamless, paperless, and contactless travel experience for domestic flyers.
Key highlights of the announcement:
1. Digi Yatra trial began on September 3, 2025, with Air India passengers being the first to experience the system
2. The platform uses Aadhaar-linked facial recognition to verify identity and boarding credentials at e-gates
3. Passengers register on the Digi Yatra app by uploading a selfie, Aadhaar details, and boarding pass, creating a digital travel token
4. The trial will continue for several weeks before formal inauguration, pending final approval from the Ministry
Technology and user experience
The Digi Yatra platform is powered by Facial Recognition System (FRS) technology, which converts a passenger’s face into a digital token linked to their boarding pass and PNR. Once registered, travelers can enter the terminal, clear security, and board flights without presenting physical documents.
At the airport:
• Passengers scan their boarding pass QR code at the e-gate
• The system matches the face with the registered Digi Yatra ID and flight details
• Upon successful verification, the gate opens, granting access to the security zone and boarding area
This process reduces queuing time, minimizes human intervention, and enhances security by ensuring only verified passengers proceed through checkpoints.
Operational rollout and stakeholder involvement
The trial was launched in the presence of key airport officials including Acting Director Deepak Chamoli, Airport Manager Vaibhav Bansal, and Joint General Manager Nitin Kadyan. The Digi Yatra Foundation, a not-for-profit entity backed by the Airport Authority of India and major airport operators, is overseeing the implementation.
Dehradun is among the nine airports selected for the September rollout, joining Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Cochin, and others. The phased expansion is part of the government’s broader Digital India vision, aiming to digitize public services and infrastructure.
Passenger enrollment and verification
To use Digi Yatra, passengers must:
• Download the Digi Yatra app and create an ID by submitting name, mobile number, email, and Aadhaar or other identity details
• Upload a selfie and boarding pass before travel
• On first use, validate the ID at a registration kiosk at the airport
Aadhaar-linked verification is conducted online, while other IDs are manually verified by CISF personnel. Once verified, the passenger’s photo is stored in the central Digi Yatra system, enabling future travel without repeated registration.
Benefits and future potential
The Digi Yatra platform offers several advantages:
• Eliminates the need to show ID and boarding pass at multiple checkpoints
• Enhances airport throughput and resource planning
• Improves security by mapping passengers to their flight data
• Enables real-time tracking of passenger flow for airlines and airport operators
The system also supports self-bag drop and automated check-in, further reducing congestion and improving operational efficiency.
Conclusion
The launch of Digi Yatra trials at Dehradun Airport marks a transformative step in India’s aviation journey. By integrating Aadhaar-based facial recognition into the boarding process, the initiative promises faster, safer, and more convenient travel for millions. As the trial progresses and formal approvals are secured, Digi Yatra is poised to become a cornerstone of India’s smart airport infrastructure.
Sources: Jagran News Network, Digi Yatra Foundation, Ministry of Civil Aviation, India.gov.in
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