Information exchange systems and management of return
Article 49
1. The Agency shall operate and further develop, in accordance with point (d) of Article 48(1), an integrated return management platform for processing information, including personal data transmitted by the Member States' return management systems, that is necessary for the Agency to provide technical and operational assistance. Personal data shall only include biographic data or passenger lists. Personal data shall be transmitted only where they are necessary for the Agency to assist in the coordination or organisation of return operations to third countries, irrespective of the means of transport. Such personal data shall be transmitted to the platform only once a decision to launch a return operation has been taken, and shall be erased as soon as the operation is terminated. Biographic data shall only be transmitted to the platform where they cannot be accessed by members of teams in accordance with Article 17(3) of Regulation (EU) 2018/1860 of the European Parliament and of the Council ( 39 ) . The Agency may also use the platform for the purpose of securely transmitting biographic or biometric data, including all types of documents which can be considered as proof or prima facie evidence of the nationality of third-country nationals subject to return decisions, where the transmission of such personal data is necessary for the Agency to provide assistance, at the request of a Member State, in confirming the identity and nationality of third-country nationals in individual cases. Such data shall not be stored on the platform and shall be erased immediately following a confirmation of receipt. 2. The Agency shall develop, deploy and operate information systems and software applications allowing for the exchange of information for the purpose of return within the European Border and Coast Guard and for the purpose of exchanging personal data. 3. Personal data shall be processed in accordance with Articles 86, 87, 88 and 91, as applicable.