Following last year’s successful trial, Virgin Australia has now announced it will launch its pop-up check-in and baggage drop service at major Australian airports.
The service, created by Off Airport Check In Solutions (OACIS), uses Amadeus’ Airport Common Use Service (ACUS) 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.
The service will provide passengers with the convenience of seat and baggage check-in away from the airport at locations such as cruise ports, conference venues and hotels. It will also ensure secure and convenient transport of luggage straight to the airport and reduce waiting times at the airport.
Travellers disembarking at Sydney’s Overseas Passenger Terminal and White Bay Cruise Terminal will be the first to use the new check-in and baggage drop service with Virgin Australia staff also available to assists guests.
Rob Sharp, Group Executive, Virgin Australia Airlines, said: “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 freedom to explore the city, bag-free, before taking off to their next destination. In addition, this service will help ease airport congestion as these passengers will now be checked in and ready to go for their flight.”
Minster of Roads, Maritime and Freight Melinda Pavey added that the introduction of the new service is a positive for Australia’s $5.3 billion cruise industry, of which New South Wales holds 58% of the market share.
“This year’s cruise season is a record breaker for New South Wales with 350 cruise ships to visit Sydney and now the thousands of passengers disembarking a cruise ship each day at one of Sydney’s cruise terminals can enjoy a streamlined travel experience with the new service.”
Matthew Lee, CEO of OACIS, said the cutting-edge technology will enable travellers to make the most of their time.
“This agile technology will create a seamless travel experience for travellers and will allow Virgin Australia to get their guests up and away as quickly and smoothly as possible. We’re proud to partner with Virgin Australia to bring this innovative service to travellers and we’re excited to explore the future possibilities for using our solution to assist major events and activities in Australia and New Zealand,” he said.
Looking ahead, Virgin Australia has said it plans to explore future opportunities to implement the service at new locations across its network following the completion of the initial pilot programme.
