skill-basedflight check-in: elimination of ID verification at departure gates in Italy - Departures from Italy available?
### Simplified ID Requirements for EU Flights
In a move aimed at streamlining airport procedures, the Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC) has introduced new rules for EU citizens travelling domestically within Italy and to other Schengen area countries.
#### Domestic and Schengen Flights
Starting soon, a boarding pass will be sufficient for domestic flights and travel within the Schengen area at Italian airports, as ID will no longer be required at the gate. This change applies to almost all EU countries, excluding Ireland and Cyprus, plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland, which are part of the Schengen area [1][3].
However, it's important to note that this rule does not apply to flights outside the Schengen area. Passengers travelling to countries such as the UK will still be required to show their ID at the gate [1].
#### Flights with High Immigration Concerns
While the new regulation does not require ID checks at the gate for Schengen flights, random checks by law enforcement can still be conducted. There might be exceptions for routes sensitive to illegal immigration, where ID checks could be maintained [1][3].
#### General Security Measures
Even though IDs are not required for domestic and Schengen flights, airports maintain robust security measures, including metal detectors and random checks by law enforcement [1][3]. ENAC chief Pierluigi Di Palma emphasises the importance of not leaving one's passport or ID card at home, as those without a document may not be allowed to board [2].
The aim of this measure is to speed up airport procedures without compromising security. It's worth noting that the new rule does not affect the need for ID checks at airport check-in desks or border control points [1][2].
Airports are considered protected areas, and the new measure does not apply to flights outside the Schengen area [4][5]. For these flights, ID checks at the gate will remain in place [1].
The Italian Ministry of the Interior has also stated that ID checks could be carried out on routes with high immigration, such as flights to France [6]. This potential measure is intended to ensure security and address concerns related to illegal immigration.
Sources: [1] Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC) [2] Pierluigi Di Palma, ENAC Chief [3] Italian Ministry of the Interior [4] European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) [5] European Commission [6] Italian Ministry of the Interior
- In the context of EuropeanUnion flights, the Community policy regarding ID requirements may not necessitate checks at the gate for domestic and Schengen flights, but it's crucial to understand that lifestyle factors like forgetting essential documents can prevent boarding.
- Beyond the Schengen area, vocational training in airport procedures might still require ID checks at the gate for flights to destinations like the UK, underscoring the need for continued focus on travel-related security measures.
