DIY check-in takes off
SELF check-in kiosks have been installed at the Ballina-Byron Gateway Airport in an effort to reduce its 'terrible reputation' for on-time performance.
Lismore
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SELF check-in kiosks have been installed at the Ballina-Byron Gateway Airport in an effort to reduce its ‘terrible reputation’ for on-time performance.
Jetstar installed the three terminals last week, and staff have already reported a dramatic increase in efficiency.
Airport manager Neil Weatherson said the kiosks would bring the airport into line with major airports across the country. “This facility takes us to the next level of service,” he said.
“Jetstar passengers, whether regular or infrequent flyers, will have the choice to self-check themselves on to their flight, avoid queues and then relax.”
Mr Weatherson also said the DIY check-in terminals would help improve the airport’s on-time performance, which he admitted had a‘terrible reputation’.
In October last year more than a quarter of all flights leaving Ballina for Sydney were late leaving the airport.
It was the worst departure record of all airports in the country.
Only 71.7 per cent of flights left the airport on time, according to the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, and Regional Development.
The most recent figures, from June this year, were better, with 81.3pc of flights leaving on time.
Jetstar chief executive, Bruce Buchanan, said the airline was moving towards a service that would enable customers to check in without any staff assistance.
That will include web check-in, processing via the kiosks and future use of SMS boarding pass technology.
“This investment in state-of-the-art technology facilitates growth and will support our ever greater volumes of customers at Ballina-Byron Gateway Airport without impacting on the amenity of the terminal,” he said.
Mr Weatherson said he hoped Virgin Blue would also install self-service kiosks in the near future.
“That’s certainly something we are pushing for,” he said.
“These kiosks will improve passenger flow, and on-time performance is a big issue at this airport.
“Getting these kiosks shows Jetstar is committed to the Ballina airport, and that it wants to help create a stress-free, happy environment.”
Originally published as DIY check-in takes off
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