Detroit Metro Airport Gets Automated Customs Technology

DETROIT (WWJ/AP) - New technology at the Detroit Metropolitan Airport aims to make the U.S. customs process a little easier for international travelers.

The airport's 30 new Automated Passport Control kiosks are designed to reduce passenger wait times by 25 to 40 percent by allowing passengers to enter information at a self-service kiosk rather than filling out a declaration card.

The kiosks located in a secure spot of the customs inspection area.

How Does the Automated Passport Control Program Work?

U.S. and Canadian passport holders and international visitors from Visa Waiver Program countries are eligible to use APC kiosks.

Travelers are prompted to scan their passport, take a photograph using the kiosk, and answer a series of questions verifying biographic and flight information.

Once passengers have completed the series of questions and submitted their Customs declaration form, a receipt will be issued. Travelers then bring their passport and receipt to a CBP Officer to finalize their inspection for entry into the United States.

The kiosks allow people residing at the same address to be processed together.

Other airports that use the APC kiosks include Atlanta, Boston, Los Angeles, New York-JFK and Seattle.

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