Virgin Australia plans to be the first airline in the world to offer pop-up check-in and baggage drop services, aimed at reducing airport congestion by enabling passengers to check-in off-site at locations such as cruise terminals, conference venues and hotels.
Travellers will be able to check-in, select their seat and drop off their luggage off site, with luggage then transported directly to the airport. The service has been developed by Off Airport Check-In Solutions (OACIS) and makes use of Amadeus’ Airport Common Use Service cloud technology.
An expected roll out date for the service hasn’t been announced, though Virgin Australia has confirmed that it will begin a pilot programme in Sydney for travellers disembarking from the Overseas Passenger Terminal and White Bay Cruise Terminal.
“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,” said Virgin Australia’s group chairman, Rob Sharp.
“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.”
Travellers not making use of the service also will likely benefit from the reduction of congestion at airports in Australia.
Following completion of the pilot programme, Virgin Australia aims to implement the service at new locations across its network.
