Commencing on December 19, 2025, in conjunction with the inauguration of the Terminal 2 Passenger Terminal expansion project, Noi Bai International Airport (NIA) is progressively implementing the "Smart Airport" model.

For the first time, international passengers will experience a nearly end-to-end automated check-in and processing procedure in the expanded area, significantly reducing waiting times. (It is important to note that, in the existing hall areas, traditional service procedures will be maintained to ensure flexibility for all passenger demographics).

The journey to experience the "new look" of Terminal 2 begins the moment passengers’ step into the check-in area. Immediately at the terminal entrance doors, passengers are assisted with smart information look-up via a multi-functional screen system. This device integrates a touch-screen feature, allowing passengers to quickly self-check flight information, locate check-in counters, find terminal maps, restaurant locations, and various utility services with just a few simple taps.

Upon entering the check-in area, instead of queuing at traditional check-in counters, passengers can proceed directly to the area equipped with 24 Check-in Kiosks (at Islands A/B and K/L) to select their seats and print their boarding passes independently. Immediately thereafter, a system of 24 Self Bag Drop counters will assist passengers in weighing, printing, and affixing baggage tags in an instant. The entire process is conducted swiftly, enabling passengers to have complete control over their time without reliance on service personnel.

Furthermore, at the traditional check-in counters, Noi Bai International Airport has installed a biometric identification system for Vietnamese nationals holding chip-embedded passports. The chip-passport reader, combined with the facial biometric recognition device, will connect the passenger's information with the database, thereby ensuring faster and more accurate processing steps and enhancing the passenger experience.

Stepping into the control area, passengers will clearly perceive the change thanks to the continuous technology process. At the first touchpoint into the restricted area (Veripax 1), the biometric facial recognition autogate system will automatically match data and open the door within just 1-3 seconds, entirely replacing manual verification. Subsequently, passengers will move through the Automated Exit Control Gates (Autogate) and perform a second facial authentication (Veripax 2) before proceeding to security screening.

The pilot application of biometric facial recognition at Terminal 2 Passenger Terminal is considered a significant milestone, marking a new step in the comprehensive digital transformation of Noi Bai International Airport. This technology helps passengers minimize waiting times, creating a seamless, "touchless journey" and enhancing the overall passenger experience through the Airport.

Streamlined Security Screening

In the security screening area, new generation equipment makes the process smoother and faster:

• For Baggage: The 920CT 3D layered screening machine system supports multi-dimensional image analysis, allowing security personnel to thoroughly check without missing dangerous items.
• For Passengers: The metal detector gate combined with a Body Scanner boasts superior processing speed. This system accurately detects objects (both metallic and non-metallic) concealed on the person, helping personnel quickly pinpoint the area requiring inspection. Notably, the image displayed on the screen is a 'neutral avatar,' ensuring maximum respect for privacy and providing passengers with a comfortable and secure feeling when passing through the security checkpoint.

Concluding the rapid processing procedures, passengers will have more leisure time to enjoy the comfortable transit area. A diverse range of restaurants, shopping facilities, along with thoughtful amenities such as diaper-changing rooms and children's play areas, are interspersed with ecological green spaces, helping passengers rejuvenate before departure.

With this continuously optimized procedure, the expanded Noi Bai T2 Terminal will deliver a smooth, safe, and civilized travel experience, approaching the standards of leading international airports in the region, befitting its status as the international air gateway to Hanoi, the capital.

News and photos: Noi Bai International Airport