TTPRADARIf you land at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) as a Global Entry member, there is no kiosk to operate. CBP has replaced the self-service kiosks with cameras that use biometric facial comparison. CBP's release is dated November 5, 2026, and PHL is the first airport to use the new process.
Where CBP and the press coverage have not said something, we say so rather than guess.
What changed at PHL
The cameras verify your identity and your Global Entry membership as you enter the processing area. That replaces the kiosk step, where you operated a machine yourself.
Press reports say you also no longer answer customs declaration questions during arrival processing at PHL.
The same reports say the new process started on October 13, 2026, ahead of the public announcement. We could not check that date against CBP's own release, so treat it as reported rather than confirmed.
How the camera step works
The coverage we found describes one thing: the camera check at the entrance to the processing area, which identifies you and checks your Global Entry status.
It does not describe what happens after that, such as exit checks or when an officer gets involved. We are not going to invent a step-by-step for the rest of the walk.
Customs declarations and the Trusted Traveler app
You can still submit a customs declaration through the Trusted Traveler mobile app at participating locations. The app lets you report your U.S. arrival and submit the declaration. It is the same app members use for applications, renewals, updating personal information and travel documents, and scheduling interview appointments.
Have the app installed and your account working before you fly. Whether PHL is a participating location for declarations, and when in the trip you are expected to submit one, is worth confirming on CBP's Global Entry page before departure.
If the camera does not match you
No source we could read says how a mismatch is handled, or whether anything changes for your membership or benefits. Any answer here would be speculation.
If the camera does not recognize you, follow the signs and the instructions of CBP officers on site, and check CBP's pages for guidance as it is published.
What has and has not changed
Changed
- The arrival kiosk at PHL is replaced by facial comparison cameras.
- You no longer answer declaration questions during arrival processing, according to press reports.
- Declarations can be submitted through the Trusted Traveler mobile app at participating locations.
Not reported as changed
- Your membership and its benefits. No source says they change.
- Enrollment. The app is reported to handle interview scheduling, but we found nothing on any change to how you book or prepare for an interview appointment. If you are still waiting for one, our live Global Entry wait times show current availability by enrollment center.
When other airports will follow
CBP plans to bring the process to as many as 38 terminals at 30 high-volume airports, including some Preclearance locations. No airport list and no timetable have been published in the coverage we found.
If you are not flying into PHL, assume your arrival process is unchanged until CBP says otherwise.