Desire a Non-public Verify-in Desk? This Airline Is Providing It — For a Charge

European provider Austrian Airways has launched a premium, personal check-in expertise however at an upcharge.

Vacationers flying from Vienna Worldwide Airport (VIE) with Austrian Airways, Lufthansa, or SWISS can e book this service for €99 (roughly $107) with a minimal 30-minute period. Reservations should be made by a web-based type a minimum of eight days earlier than departure and are topic to availability.

“Whereas the personal check-in counter was beforehand reserved primarily for company shoppers, Austrian Airways is now increasing this provide to all passengers on account of excessive demand from the group journey phase,” the provider shared in an announcement. “This specialised service is now accessible to non-public people and might be conveniently booked by austrian.com.” 

On the personal check-in counter, an agent assists the group of vacationers with acquiring their boarding passes and checking baggage. Nevertheless, Austrian Airways emphasizes the personalization facet of this service, catering to particular events like honeymoons, bachelor or bachelorette events, and even household holidays. The check-in display can show a customized brand or private message of as much as 66 characters, including a custom-made contact to the expertise.

Fee for the service is due at check-in, although the complete quantity will likely be charged even when vacationers arrive late to the airport and are unable to make their time slot.

Whereas Austrian Airways stands out as the first industrial provider to supply a personal check-in counter as an upsell, there are numerous methods vacationers can improve their airport expertise, from expedited safety to lounge day passes. 

For instance, PS, a personal terminal at main U.S. airports like Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Worldwide Airport (ATL) and Los Angeles Worldwide (LAX), provides facilities like devoted TSA checkpoints, a full-service bar, lounge entry, and even direct transportation to the plane. Costs begin round $1,000 per passenger, although memberships can be found for frequent customers of the service.