Key Takeaways
Norwegian Police Shared Services (NPSS) plans to issue a contract for Automated Border Control e-Gates at Oslo Airport Gardermoen (OSL). This initiative is expected to enhance the airport’s security. Additionally, the new system aims to expedite border crossings while ensuring safety at the airport.
Norwegian authorities are set to issue a contract for Automated Border Control (ABC) e-Gates at Oslo Airport Gardermoen (OSL) as part of their efforts to bolster the airport’s security. Alongside the installation of these electronic gates, plans are underway to expand the number of gates at various locations, according to Schengen.News.
The tender announcement from the Norwegian Police Shared Services (NPSS) for this initiative has already been released under the title “Procurement of ABC Gates.”
As reported by Biometric Update, the procurement process is anticipated to take place in 2025, with the contract expected to be finalized in the first half of the year.
The NPSS has budgeted approximately €4.5 million for the implementation of these biometric gates.
New e-Gates Aim to Accelerate Border Crossings
The new gates are designed to speed up border crossings while ensuring security. The Automated Border Control Gates will enable passengers to perform automated self-checks using various verification methods.
Although Norway is not an EU member, it is part of the European Economic Area; thus, the procurement process is guided by Directive 2014/24/EU, aligning with EU procurement standards.
The NPSS has opened this tender opportunity to all qualified providers.
Additionally, according to a report from Tech, the NPSS has shown interest in developing some of the controlling software for the e-Gates internally. Utilizing their own software could allow NPSS greater control over updates and enhancements, making it easier to implement necessary adjustments.
Significant Increase in Air Traffic in 2023
Oslo Airport Gardermoen (OSL) serves a significant number of travelers annually.
According to a report from Travel and Tour World, Oslo Airport experienced the highest passenger growth in May of this year.
Gaute Skallerud Riise, the Director of Traffic Development at Avinor, stated that the statistics for 2024 show an improvement compared to the same period in the previous year.
As we move into June, summer travel is off to a strong start, with many enthusiastic Norwegians traveling abroad and an increasing number of tourists arriving in Norway. The proportion of incoming tourists continues to grow following the pandemic, and this summer is anticipated to surpass last year’s figures for this group of travelers.
— Gaute Skallerud Riise, Director of Traffic Development at Avinor.
In May of this year, Oslo Airport recorded a total of 64,419 flights, representing a substantial rise compared to the same month last year.
As reported by Avinor, the state-owned entity that oversees Oslo Airport, Gardermoen welcomed 25 million passengers in 2023, marking a 12 percent increase from the figures in 2022.