MIA has an app for that!
Miami International Airport is the first airport in the world to implement a fast-track way to clear passport control with mobile passport screening. The app allows U.S. citizens and Canadian visitors to fill out their customs form before they even land. The information is saved and the passenger is pre-screened for future use.
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has authorized MIA to integrate Mobile Passport Control into MIA Airport Official, its mobile application. Previously, the only option travelers had was to download the separate Mobile Passport Control app if they wanted to clear passport control via mobile device.
U.S. citizens and Canadian visitors arriving at MIA who have downloaded MIA Airport Official will be automatically prompted by the app to complete the CBP process upon arrival. Users can also set an in-app reminder to submit their information upon arrival. Pending customs declarations are saved within the app and accessible from the home screen.
The service, which was developed by global air transport IT provider SITA and certified by CBP for Mobile Passport Control, speeds up the entry process into the USA. The new mobile service builds on the personal travel assistant experience already being offered to Miami’s passengers.
After first-time users of MIA Airport Official create and save a traveler profile, those traveling with family will have the option to create multiple traveler profiles and include them in their submission to CBP.
Once the desired number of travelers is selected, users will be asked to provide airline information and answer five questions about their travel itinerary. The app then provides users with a digital receipt to be used at dedicated Mobile Passport Control entry lanes. The expedited service does not require pre-approval and is free of charge.
MIA also has more than 500 Bluetooth data beacons installed throughout the airport, enabling users of MIA Airport Official to scan their boarding pass and receive turn-by-turn, blue-dot navigation with estimated walk times, or get real-time flight updates and shopping and dining suggestions nearby based on their customizable personal profile.
MIA is one of only a handful of airports in the world to incorporate beacon technology with its mobile app to provide this cutting-edge, personalized travel experience.
MIA Airport Official 2.0 is available for free at the iPhone and Google Play app stores. The app’s location-based features require Bluetooth, location services and Wi-Fi network settings to be turned on.
