From April 25, all British Airways domestic passengers must either check-in online or use the self check-in machines at the airport. BA is following rival Bmi which began to steer passengers towards similar check-in systems last January. There are differences however. Bmi's tiny and economy fare (two of the cheapest tariffs) passengers have to self-check, but those travelling on business or premium economy fares or who are high ranking FFP members can still use the conventional desks. In BA's case the new system will apply to almost all passengers.
The few exceptions are limited mainly to groups of six or more and passengers in transit (the latter may already have checked in at their origin airport anyway). BA's conventional check-in desks will be converted to "fast bag drop" desks for customers (who have already checked-in online or by machine) to hand over any luggage for tagging.
BA's commercial director Martin George says that "making the airport experience simpler and speedier is the cornerstone of our vision for Heathrow Terminal 5 and we want to introduce many of these improvements now."
The airline is investing heavily in automated check-in systems as it believes over 80% of its passengers will use these systems by the time BA moves into T5 in 2008. BA is cutting costs at the same time (because fewer staff and check-in desks are needed) as well as using space within the terminals more efficiently.
On the other hand, it is possible that there will be scenes of confusion. Not everyone is computer literate and the passenger mix of domestic flights tends to include elderly travellers, holidaymakers and overseas visitors.
A BA spokesperson says that the carrier will have dedicated staff on hand to help passengers with the check-in process. "Passengers will be guided through every stage of the process. Providing help for everyone is the key to making the new system a success."
For more information go to www.ba.com
Report by Alex McWhirter
