EUDI: Lufthansa and Amadeus test digital EU wallet for easier travel

The digitalization of identity and travel processes should make repeated manual entries or the presentation of physical documents superfluous. From 2026, electronic wallets based on the legal act for a European digital identity (EUid) will therefore simplify not only administrative services but also travel for EU citizens. The corresponding wallet on the smartphone enables the secure storage of important documents such as passports and ID cards, as well as biometric profiles and payment information.

Lufthansa and the travel service provider Amadeus, both of which are involved in the European Digital Identity (EUDI) Wallet Consortium for large-scale pilot projects, have already successfully tested the e-wallet envisaged in the EU for various such processes, according to their statements. These include online check-in and airport processes such as baggage check-in and boarding. Further tests for airport security and border controls are to follow in the second half of the year.

According to Amadeus, the EUDI wallet promises advantages in this environment: travelers would be able to transfer their ID data from the e-wallet to the airline with just one click instead of typing it in manually. Users would also be able to share their physical characteristics stored in the wallet, such as facial images or fingerprints, to use biometric systems at the airport. A separate scan or authentication via selfie would no longer be necessary.

Missing piece of the puzzle for contactless travel

From check-in and baggage drop-off to boarding the aircraft, a smartphone is all that is needed, Amadeus claims. At automated border controls, travelers could prove their identity using their cell phone. The wallet also enables secure payments online or at airport terminals by accessing a stored credit card.

To ensure the seamless integration of EUDI wallets, Amadeus has further developed its “Travel Ready” solution. This platform is not only used by many travel companies in the background. It should now also provide the necessary infrastructure for interoperability with third-party wallets and ensure the compatibility of all future digital identity solutions. Amadeus emphasizes that the most sensitive data remains stored on the user's end device. It does not end up on external servers. Travelers can decide for themselves which data they disclose for which transaction.

“Flying will be much easier for Europeans,” says Falk Durm from Lufthansa, summing up the first trial run. Rudy Daniello from Amadeus is certain: “Digital identity is the missing piece of the puzzle for seamless travel.” The aviation industry has been working for some time on replacing check-ins at airports with boarding passes with a system of digital travel passes. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has developed the concept of digital travel credentials for this purpose. Following initial pilot projects with airlines, Amadeus intends to implement the blueprint on a broad scale soon.

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