This creates a biometric token containing information of passengers’ passport and boarding pass.

Passengers can then move to self bag drop counters, scan their faces through a camera to validate their identities against the token. Here, they can check-in their bags after printing and securing their luggage tags.

Travellers will only need to scan their faces again at the e-security gates and e-boarding gates. The will not need to show their travel documents and boarding passes again.

The authority, which manages the airport, said most travellers opted to use self-service stations.

2. Security screening

Starting on Tuesday, the introduction of four smart security screening channels with advanced three-dimensional computerised tomography (CT) X-ray scanning technology will mean passengers can keep laptops in their carry-on bags. The same applies to bottles or packets of liquids that are less than 100ml.

The trays used in the process will be equipped with built-in sterilisation and will be automatically recirculated, allowing three passengers to proceed to security clearance simultaneously.

A new full-body scanner will replace the manual procedure using a handheld device for individuals who set off the archway metal detector.

The authority aims to install all 50 smart channels and 32 body scanners in the next two years as part of the HK$800 million (US$102 million) upgrade.

The new system is expected to increase the average traveller throughput by 20 per cent within that time frame.

3. Immigration

After passing through e-security gates, passengers who have enrolled for Flight Token can complete the departure clearance process by scanning their faces at cameras located at Immigration Department e-channels.

The service is currently available to those with Hong Kong ID or SAR passport; a government-issued Document of Identity for Visa Purposes; or electronic Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macau Residents.

4. Tracking baggage

Residents have the option to track their baggage and receive updates on estimated pickup times through the MyHKG mobile app. To use the service, passengers have to buy physical smart tags called “MyTAG” at HK$90 each.

By scanning a QR code on the tag and assigning it a name, users can link their tag to the MyHKG app before departure. Users then select their flight on the app and their tag will be linked.

Upon arrival at Hong Kong, the app will provide notifications on the designated belt for baggage claims and estimated time for baggage retrieval.

5. Auto e-shuttle buses

Three autonomous electric shuttle buses serve the restricted area of the airport.

Operating for 12 hours daily, they transport airport staff to various locations within the restricted area. With a capacity of 14 passengers each, the bus requires only 90 minutes to charge for travel of up to 200km.

Equipped with four GPS systems, four cameras and six closed-circuit televisions, the bus also features remote monitoring systems and sensors. It automatically stops when deviating from the designated route or encountering obstacles or pedestrians.

6. Autonomous mass transport system

The Airport Authority on Thursday also granted a tender to Kwoon Chung Bus Holdings and Prime Motors to develop autonomous vehicles and the city’s first autonomous mass transport system.

The latter would operate along the Airportcity Link, a dedicated vehicular bridge that integrates with a pedestrian walkway.

The new system will carry travellers between the Hong Kong portion of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge and Skycity – a hub for dining, shopping and entertainment at the airport.

The service will initially be able to carry up to 500 passengers an hour in either direction, with plans to ramp up the throughput to 2,000. The system is expected to debut in 2025.