A discussion about the airline industry, airline employees, and all things related

If we compare the airline industry to the restaurant industry, one could say that the airline industry has moved from the traditional sit down and let the waiter help you to the fast food industry.  And the airline that is mimicking fast food is our neighbors to the north, Air Canada.

Air Canada is testing a new concept that will “let” travelers self tag their own bags at check in.  According to Air Canada chief executive Montie Brewer, consumers will save time by "self-tagging" luggage after using electronic check-in kiosks at airports.

Check in kiosks will print out boarding passes along with the luggage tags.  All bags will still be x-rayed and if anything seems unusual will be searched.

Currently the trial project is located in Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver.  Pending Transport Canada and other authorities, AC hopes to have the self tag system in place in Ottawa, Calgary, Edmonton, Winnipeg and Halifax by late 2008 and early 2009 at the remaining Canadian airports. 

Canada’s largest low cost carrier, WestJet, is planning to roll out the service in 2008. 

This sounds and looks like another way to rid the counter of customer service agents.  But WestJet CEO Sean Durfy said that agents will not disappear completely.  "You're not going to have a situation where nobody is there to help you.” 

Yeah, just one person. 

Air Canada is often cited as one of the industry's leading innovators; let’s see if this is one of their innovations that will make its way south of the border.    

Globe and Mail