Mobile and Web Check-in Urged by Low-Cost Carriers to Speed Processing

After the recent chaos caused by Cebu Pacific at Terminal 3 for Christmas travellers, low-cost carriers are once again urging passengers to be proactive in speeding up their own check-in process. As the busy holiday season winds down and travellers prepare to return home, Cebu Pacific and AirAsia are advising passengers to use their mobile or web check-in features. Mobile and web check-in allows passengers to avoid long queues at the airport. In addition, passengers can also print their own boarding pass, enabling travellers without check-in baggage to proceed directly to their departure gates after document verification, clearing security, and paying any necessary fees.

AirAsia iOS application (L) and Cebu Pacific Air iOS application (R)/
Screenshots: travellingbk/PFN

AIR ASIA

The mobile and web check-in service of AirAsia is available from 14 days up to 1 hour prior to departure for all AirAsia flights. The service is only available up to 4 hours prior to departure for AirAsia X flights. The maximum number of guests for web check-in is fifty while up to nine guests can check in simultaneously using mobile check-in. During the check-in process, passengers are given options as to how they want to receive their boarding pass. These options include email where you can print a PDF copy of your boarding pass or through a mobile QR code that you can scan at the airport. Self check-in kiosks have also been installed at NAIA Terminal 4, NAIA Terminal 3, and at provincial airports in Kalibo, Clark, Mactan-Cebu, Puerto Princesa, Davao, Tagbilaran, Tacloban and Cagayan de Oro City for added passenger convenience.

CEBU PACIFIC AIR

Cebu Pacific also offers mobile and online check-in. The budget carrier recently launched their own application, which is currently available in the Apple store. Cebu Pacific's mobile and web check-in is available from 72 hours up to four hours prior to departure for international flights and up to two hours prior to departure for domestic flights. If a passenger did not pre-purchase a seat, they will be automatically assigned an available seat. The maximum number of guests that can use the service to check in simultaneous is fourteen passengers. Once the process is completed, passengers will receive a PDF file of their boarding pass via email must be printed and presented for boarding. Cebu Pacific also offers self-check in kiosks at a number of airports throughout the country. Unlike the mobile and web check-in service, passengers are able to select their own seats at check-in including premium seats at no additional charge.

REMINDERS

Though web and mobile check-in offers passengers much convenience, it is important to note that there are some instances when the service cannot be used:

• Expectant mothers
• Guest with infants
• Unaccompanied minors
• Group bookings with 10 or more guests
• Guests with reduced mobility, or requiring special assistance
• Guest on non-direct flights
• Guests on interline bookings

It is also recommended that domestic and international travellers be at the airport at least 3 hours prior to their respective flights in order to properly verify their documents. All baggage should be dropped at the counter 60 minutes prior to boarding and passengers should be at the boarding gate no later than thirty minutes before departure. Following these recommendations can help passengers to enjoy a more seamless travelling experience during the busy holiday season.

-travelling_bk