MIA Pushes Mobile Passport Control App
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MIAMI (CBSMiami) - Long lines and wait time is often part of the process when flying internationally. But, in an effort to "enhance" experience at customs, Miami International Airport is introducing a new customs mobile app.
The app was presented Wednesday by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
MIA will be the second airport in the country to offer the new customs mobile app.
Traveler Andreas Klingberg was happy to learn about the new app.
"What a cool thing," he said. He followed the process and was able to skip the line. First, though, he downloaded the app.
The CBP app allows international travelers to enter and submit their passport and customs declaration information using a smartphone or tablet in lieu of filling out the traditional paper forms.
"We're embracing every technology tool available to make sure our passenger experience is as good as it gets," said Miami-Dade Aviation Director Emilio T. González.
"MIA is the perfect fit for Mobile Passport: we are America's second-busiest port of entry, handling more than 20 million international passengers each year, and our organization is wholeheartedly committed to bringing the latest travel technology to our airport," Gonzalez said in a statement when the app first rolled out.
There will be "dedicated lanes" for Mobile Passport users, the airport said.
The app, free of cost, is available to U.S. citizens with a valid U.S. passport and Canadian citizens with both a valid Canadian passport and B1 or B2 visa status.
Those who download the app will be asked to set up a profile using passport information. The app also allows families traveling together to create multiple profiles.
Some travelers, however, have concerns--like privacy.
"If there could be some type of privacy on it that would be better," said Ana Anderson.