The airport said the technology would improve security

People who have "e-passports" can now get through the arrivals gates at Bristol International Airport without being seen by a border force officer.

The new passports have an electronic chip which is scanned by a machine to confirm a passenger's identification.

The facial recognition system is voluntary and can be used by any UK or European passenger over the age of 18. No registration is required.

The airport said the aim of the scheme was to improve security and efficiency.

The service is a partnership between the UK Border Agency and the airport.

The same technology is also being used at Manchester and Stansted airports.

It is part of a £1.2bn e-borders system which the agency has introduced to target terrorist suspects, known criminals and illegal immigrants.

Over three million passengers have used Bristol International Airport in 2009.