Jetstar has launched its SMS boarding pass technology in New Zealand first, which allows customers to board domestic flights using SMS boarding on their mobile phone via a standard text message.
The tech is slowly being rolled out and so far only services those travelling between Auckland and Christchurch. It will be extended to Wellington and Queenstown services in the coming weeks.
Over this first month the technology is only available for single passengers travelling without checked bags. The next phase will see it extended to include multiple passengers travelling together.
Jetstar also expects the technology to be available to the airline’s 18 Australian domestic airports by the December holiday period.
Group CEO Bruce Buchanan said New Zealanders embrace new technology and the country’s high penetration of mobile phones made it an ideal location to launch the SMS boarding technology.
The technology was developed by Melbourne-based company Sissit Group through a research and development initiative.
How it works
- When passengers book their flight they get the option of automatically checking in and having an SMS boarding code delivered to their mobile phone 24 hours before departure.
- Upon arrival at the airport, passengers proceed directly to the flight departure gate where they present their phone and SMS boarding code for scanning.
- A paper boarding receipt is printed.