Luton-based no-frills airline easyJet will now allow customers to check in online for free, even if they are carrying luggage destined for the cargo hold.
Passengers who are travelling with checked baggage were previously unable to print their own boarding passes, having to check in manually at the airport.
Under the new system, all easyJet customers can check in online up to 60 days in advance, if necessary using a baggage drop facility when they reach the airport.
By contrast, low-cost rival Ryanair only allows passengers to print their own boarding pass 15 days prior to their flight, and it charges £5 each way for the privilege. Ryanair also charges £40 for airport check in, whereas easyJet provides the service for free.
"When you add the new bag drop facility to our existing 60 day advance on-line check-in capability, it makes for a great product advantage," commented Dana Dunne of easyJet.
"Most customers with hold bags can now pre-print their boarding passes for both outward and return journeys before leaving home - and get through the airport quicker too."
EasyJet hit the headlines last week after urging the government to back mandatory environmental standards for all global airlines. The low-cost carrier said aircraft operators should set a target of reducing CO2 emissions in the sector by 40 per cent.
© Cheapflights Ltd
Comments:
Roman - 01 December, 2009 at 1:44 pm
Another step that proves easyJet develops a different strategy than Ryanair.
Geoff - 01 December, 2009 at 11:27 pm
NICE ONE.