Russia’s Biometric Boarding Service Could Land in the Max Messenger

A biometric boarding trial is expanding in Russia, and officials say the technology may soon be accessible through the Max messenger app. Transport Minister Andrey Nikitin announced on June 1 that the system, now being tested at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo and St. Petersburg’s Pulkovo airports, could be integrated into the messaging platform via QR codes. “We will keep developing this technology and adding new features. I think it will become widely available within this year or next,” Nikitin said during a presentation at Sheremetyevo.

The pilot program runs from June 1, 2026, to April 1, 2027, and is currently limited to Aeroflot flights between Moscow and St. Petersburg. Passengers can register, enter the secure zone, and board using facial recognition at special gates. Other airports and airlines may join once their infrastructure is ready.

Importantly, the biometric option remains voluntary. Travelers can still choose to show standard documents. The move reflects a broader push to streamline air travel, though privacy advocates will watch closely as the service rolls out. For now, it’s a convenience for those willing to trade a little data for a faster boarding experience.