New app simplifies clearing customs
Boeing announced the introduction of a new digital app that simplifies the process of clearing United States customs for general aviation pilots and their passengers.
The app, Jeppesen Mobile QuickClear, created in partnership with Airside Mobile, helps pilots manage the customs process “in one place” by using the Mobile Passport app to securely collect passport information and relay it to customs “for a seamless Advanced Passenger Information System (APIS) manifest clearance process,” Boeing said in a news release. Mobile QuickClear was expected to be available on Apple’s iOS app store in August.
The development of Mobile QuickClear was supported by Jeppesen strategic partners including AOPA, which provided pilot perspectives and feedback.
“Innovative applications like Mobile QuickClear are critical for the future of aviation,” said AOPA President Mark Baker. “Simplifying the international customs process will give more time back to pilots to focus on other tasks and enhance the flying experience.”
Earlier this year AOPA met with Customs and Border Protection officials to share ideas on how the agency’s expanding innovation with technology fits elements of AOPA’s cross-border initiative. As noted then, CBP has deployed CBP Mobile Primary, a proprietary app that allows CBP officers to conduct planeside arrival inspections at GA locations across the country. The agency is testing the facial-recognition processing at limited locations.
“Planeside processing, especially with facial recognition capability, has been well received by GA pilots. Now we are excited about Jeppesen’s Mobile QuickClear’s launch,” said Nobuyo Reinsch, AOPA director of aviation security.
