The Data Protection Commissioner is investigating Ryanair over its alleged use of facial recognition technology.

In a statement, the DPC said it had received complaints from customers across the EU about the airline using the technology.

It said the issue was specific to customers who book Ryanair flights through third-party websites or online travel agents.

Customers have complained that, after booking their flight, Ryanair asks them for additional identity verification which it then allegedly verifies through facial recognition technology.

DPC Deputy Commissioner Graham Doyle said: “The DPC has received numerous complaints from Ryanair customers across the EU/EEA who, after booking their flights, were subsequently required to undergo a verification process.

“The verification methods used by Ryanair included the use of facial recognition technology using customers’ biometric data.

“This inquiry will consider whether Ryanair’s use of its verification methods complies with the GDPR.”

The DPC said it notified Ryanair of its investigation earlier this week.

The inquiry is “cross-border in nature” and will investigate whether Ryanair has complied with GDPR laws, including the “lawfulness and transparency of the data processing”.

In a statement, Ryanair said its verification process aims to protect customers from travel agents that are “overcharging and scamming consumers”.

It said the process “fully complies” with GDPR.

IT also claimed that the process ensures passengers make the necessary security declarations and receive “all safety and regulatory protocols required when travelling”.