Every year, airports in the UAE experience significant congestion at airline check-in counters during the two-month summer vacation period.
Annual Summer Travel Rush
Families embark on their annual holidays, leading to long queues and extended wait times. A senior airline executive has suggested that these lines could be reduced by approximately 25% if more passengers opted to check in online or use alternative check-in methods, most of which are free.
Benefits of Online Check-In
Maryam Al Tamimi, Vice President of Passenger Services at Dubai-based Emirates, emphasized the advantages of online check-in. She noted that passengers who check in online and then proceed to the airport can expedite their experience by using self-service baggage drop kiosks. This method significantly shortens the transaction time at the airport.
During the busiest travel season, Emirates anticipates taking 2.6 million passengers via Dubai International Airport (DXB). Saturday, July 6, is expected to be the busiest day. The goal is to lower the average queueing time to no more than 15 minutes, according to Al Tamimi, who added that it is now over 20 minutes during peak hours. She emphasized how convenient it is to use the airline's app or website to check in and then use the self-service kiosks to drop off bags.
Four Ways to Skip Airport Queues
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Online or app check-in is the most popular method among passengers, with nearly 50% using it. This service becomes available 48 hours before flight departure.
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Early Luggage Drop-Off: Passengers can drop their luggage at the airport the day before their flight for free. Those departing from Dubai can check in early and drop off their bags 24 hours before departure, or 12 hours before departure for flights to the US. This allows passengers to head straight to the immigration area closer to departure time.
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City Check-In Facilities: Emirates offers a city check-in facility at Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) where passengers can drop off their luggage 24 hours to four hours before their flight. Additionally, there is a 24-hour city check-in facility at the Ajman Central Bus Terminal.
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Home Check-In: For added convenience, Emirates provides home check-in services. Agents visit the customers' homes, hotels, or offices to complete the check-in process and take the bags to the airport. This service is complimentary for first-class passengers and Platinum Skywards members, allowing them to arrive at the airport later with just their hand luggage.
Al Tamimi assured that all Emirates check-in options are available to every customer, including families with children and people of determination. The only exception is for passengers traveling to the US, who must present their documents in person at the airport due to US regulations.
By adopting these alternative check-in methods, passengers can significantly reduce their wait times at the airport, making the travel experience smoother and more efficient. The UAEFA's initiative not only aims to alleviate congestion but also enhances the overall passenger experience during the busy summer travel season.
