If it rolls out effectively as they say it will, I like this new system coming online. Looks a lot like NZ's domestic check-in, which is excellent.
It is quite similar to the NZ dom operations, but from what i've been told there are quite a few differences.
When a pax checks-in at a kiosk it will print off the bag tags, it will also ask if a pax has any excess baggage and will charge AFAIK the pre-purchase discounted rate. When this is done bag tags will print off and they head over to the bag drop area.
Once there they scan their BP, and place their bag on the injector. Once this is done the system will calculate their weight against their allowance and will measure the size of the bag (to make sure it's not over sized).
If all good the bags will be injected automatically, if not it will advise to pay excess and if you have a CC you can pay at the injector.
If bags are heavy, a heavy tag will print off for the person to add on, if they dont add it on bags stay where they are.
The RFID tag can be used for other travellers, even if they RFID tag holder is not travelling (this will be transfered over to any other person on the website) AFAIK.
Much realised that all the ground staff will be feeling a bit uneasy about it all re: job security. Not sure what can be done about that..
There are a few people that will be leaving (mainly the old ones who have been at the company from the TAA days and 20-30+ years)
For the job security there are talks between the union and management for the upcoming EBA that has just recently expired. I think it's just mainly the type of job they will now be doing.
A little concerned as to how the RFID-ready bags will make for an effective prioritised bag system (i.e. the mechanics). Also, something that might not be answerable right now (either because you won't know, or can't tell), but the tags might not disappear completely, otherwise what will happen with international operations (i.e. domestic to international check-in)?
People with international connections will be able to check-in on the kiosks and a bag tag will print out. AFAIK the RFID tags are only for DOM ops at this time.
I wonder if oneworld elites (non-QF) get priority baggage service (my gut feeling is 'no')....
I highly doubt it, unless oneworld makes a policy change and streamlines all baggage allowances and features. FWIW if i see an Emerald with bags i'll throw a Priority or Business tag on.
