Lastochka passengers have received another way to board the train – now, instead of a paper passport, they can board using biometrics. The new feature has appeared on two more routes: Nizhny Novgorod – Ivanovo and Nizhny Novgorod – Kirov. The launch of the service was announced by the Russian Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media.

With this boarding method, the system automatically verifies the passenger by face and checks the data against the ticket. Now, biometrics can be used on the following routes:

• Nizhny Novgorod – Ivanovo;
• Nizhny Novgorod – Kirov;
• Moscow, Yaroslavsky railway station – Kostroma;
• Moscow, Kursky and Vostochny railway stations – Ivanovo;
• Moscow, Vostochny railway station – Nizhny Novgorod.

The new technology allows for faster and more convenient boarding, the department emphasized. At the same time, passengers can still choose the usual option and present a paper passport.

To use the service, you must have confirmed biometrics in the Unified Biometric System and give prior consent to its use. During boarding, the system recognizes the passenger's face and checks travel data.

The service is currently in test mode. Passengers are still advised to carry their passports with them.