Gulf Air makes check-in easier

"Passengers are taking, on average, 90 seconds or less to check themselves in for a Gulf Air flight using the new technology. This is made possible by the clear graphics and an easy-to-use touch screen interface which ensures a simplified process for passengers checking in with hand luggage, in all classes," said Mahfood Al Harthy, General Manager, UAE for Gulf Air.

He added: "From our experience at our other gateways, we know that the kiosks are making check-ins faster and easier. Even first time users find the clear graphics fun and easy to use. As a result, they are enjoying the benefits of directly controlling the assigned seating, avoiding queues, and consequently can be through to the departure lounge faster than the time it takes to get a double latte, skimmed milk, decaffeinated coffee from your favourite coffee bar."

Gulf Air is the first Middle East airline to introduce self-service e-check in kiosks which operate alongside ‘traditional' check-in desks. The check-in process is enabled using the passenger's frequent flyer card, credit card, or an ATB-2 coupon issued by most travel agents, which enables the kiosk to recognise the passenger and booking details, in order to issue the necessary boarding card.

Once identified, passengers are taken through a series of 'foolproof' instructions in Arabic or English which are displayed clearly on the screen. The system displays an illustration of the interior of the particular aircraft being used on the sector in order to make seat selection as easy as possible.

Under the system, it is also possible to book seats for onward sectors. At the end of the process, the boarding pass or passes are issued along with an information card which includes an invitation to use the Gulf Air lounge, if one is entitled to it. The information card contains details of the departure gate, boarding time, as well as a request to have all travel documentation ready for checking by immigration.