Morocco Considers Shift to Digital-Only Boarding Passes

Currently, travelers often have the choice between presenting a paper boarding pass or displaying a QR code on their smartphone. But this practice could soon become obsolete, replaced by more modern technologies.

Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, predicts the disappearance of boarding passes, even digital ones, in favor of biometrics (facial recognition, fingerprints) by 2030. "What we’ve designed has more in common with Uber and Amazon," he told the Telegraph, stressing the desire to create an "exclusively digital" experience.

Paul Charles, a travel expert, confirms this trend: "We will also see the end of paper passports within ten years, as airports introduce iris and facial recognition technologies to verify your identity."

While this technological evolution promises to simplify air travel, it nevertheless raises concerns about increased dependence on smartphones. "The downside is that phones run out of battery," warns Paul Charles, who calls on airlines and airports to provide more charging points.

What about Morocco? For now, the kingdom still requires the presentation of a paper boarding pass for certain flights. Ryanair, for example, imposes this rule and applies a heavy fine to passengers who do not comply.

But as the country is about to host several international events, it will be led, or even forced, to review its paper boarding pass policy.