Last year, we actively participated as the core airport technology platform in the trial of the passenger biometric identification project at Pulkovo Airport, conducted by the Ministry of Digital Development of the Russian Federation and the Biometric Technologies Center. The new "MIGOM" system, work on which began at the airport in early 2025, enables passengers to check in for flights, pass through pre-flight security, and board domestic flights using their biometric data.
A Glimpse into the Future of Air Travel
As part of the trial, overseen by the Ministry of Digital Development and the Ministry of Transport of the Russian Federation, a comprehensive technology for end-to-end passenger identification was successfully tested at Pulkovo Airport — from the moment of check-in and entry into the pre-security zone to boarding the aircraft.
In the initial phase, passengers' facial and palm data were used for identification. The technology demonstrated significant public interest: according to a survey conducted by the HSE University, over 60% of passengers on domestic flights from St. Petersburg are willing to use biometrics to expedite procedures.
Development and Scaling Plans
According to a draft government resolution published in late 2025, the pilot biometric boarding service is planned to be launched in full-scale operation at Pulkovo Airport between 2026 and 2027. By 2030, barrier-free access using biometrics is expected to become available at airports across Russia.
Crucially, the system will maintain an alternative: passengers will always have the choice to go through control using a traditional passport or their biometric data. This is particularly important for passengers with children and those who prefer conventional methods.
Neolabs' Contribution
Our solution, the "Special Control" software suite already in operation at the airport, served as the key technology platform, linking the airport's operational processes with the biometric identification and passenger access control technologies based on its outcomes.
A Glimpse into the Future of Air Travel
As part of the trial, overseen by the Ministry of Digital Development and the Ministry of Transport of the Russian Federation, a comprehensive technology for end-to-end passenger identification was successfully tested at Pulkovo Airport — from the moment of check-in and entry into the pre-security zone to boarding the aircraft.
In the initial phase, passengers' facial and palm data were used for identification. The technology demonstrated significant public interest: according to a survey conducted by the HSE University, over 60% of passengers on domestic flights from St. Petersburg are willing to use biometrics to expedite procedures.
Development and Scaling Plans
According to a draft government resolution published in late 2025, the pilot biometric boarding service is planned to be launched in full-scale operation at Pulkovo Airport between 2026 and 2027. By 2030, barrier-free access using biometrics is expected to become available at airports across Russia.
Crucially, the system will maintain an alternative: passengers will always have the choice to go through control using a traditional passport or their biometric data. This is particularly important for passengers with children and those who prefer conventional methods.
Neolabs' Contribution
Our solution, the "Special Control" software suite already in operation at the airport, served as the key technology platform, linking the airport's operational processes with the biometric identification and passenger access control technologies based on its outcomes.
