Everyone wants to maximise their time on holidays and minimise their wait time at the airport. Am I right?
Well, Virgin Australia has just announced it is launching some cutting-edge technology that is going to allow us to do just that.
The airline is piloting a pop-up check-in and baggage drop service that will give passengers the freedom to conduct their seat and baggage check-in away from the airport at locations such as cruise ports, conference venues and hotels.
SAY WHAT?
Yep, that’s right. The service, created by Off Airport Check-In Solutions (OACIS) uses Amadeus’ Airport Common Use Service cloud technology to work remotely with Virgin Australia’s system to provide travellers with a check-in and baggage service that can be accessed from anywhere, according to customer demand.
The luggage will then be securely transported straight to the airport.
Travellers disembarking from Sydney’s Overseas Passenger Terminal and White Bay Cruise Terminal will be the first to use the new check-in and baggage drop service.
Over 1.5 million passengers are transported to and from Sydney by cruise ship in peak season and many of those who disembark at Sydney’s cruise terminals then fly to another destination.
“This new service means tourists can check-in and drop their bags off once their cruise ship has docked, and can then enjoy the freedom to explore the city, bag-free, before taking off to their next destination.”
Group Executive Virgin Australia Airlines Rob Sharp.
“In addition, this service will help ease airport congestion as these passengers will now be checked in and ready to go for their flight,” he said.
Virgin Australia plans to explore future opportunities to implement the service at new locations around its network following the completion of the initial pilot program.
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