New customs service expands Scottsdale Airport’s appeal

Fantastic Article from the Charter X Daily Email Blast.

“A new U.S. Customs and Border Protection program will expand Scottsdale Airport as an international destination for visitors and business travelers. While customs services were already available, international arrivals and departures were limited to specific countries.

The new service, called “US-VISIT,” features advanced biometric identification techniques that will allow visitors from all over the world to fly in and out of Scottsdale, provided they have the proper visas.

“The new program really enhances the airport’s appeal,” says Gary Mascaro, Scottsdale’s aviation director. “We already see lots of visitors from Canada and from Mexico, and expect that this expanded service will generate even more international activity at the airport. It’s great, and we’re thankful that U.S. Customs and Border Protection is bringing it here.”

According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the biometric services (which include digital fingerprinting and photographs) help prevent identity fraud and stop criminals and immigration violators from entering the United States. The technology also makes U.S. immigration and border management efforts more collaborative, more streamlined and more effective.

U.S. Customs and Border protections services are available at Scottsdale Airport by appointment 24 hours per day, seven days per week.  Normal hours of operation are Thursday through Monday, 9:00 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Users requesting service outside of normal hours must pay an additional $225 user fee.  To book an appointment with US Customs and Border protection, call 480-312-8483. For more information about Scottsdale Airport, visit www.scottsdaleaz.gov/airport.  “