Air New Zealand has announced the introduction of an RFID-enabled check-in process for frequent passengers, beginning November 3. The new check-in process will enable passengers to check in without paper documentation, instead using devices, like cellphones, embedded with an RFID tag.
The new service, called RFID ePass, will be available to frequent fliers with Gold and Silver membership status. In the system, passengers have their personal data encoded on a RFID tag in the device of their choice, usually a cellphone. Upon arrival at the airport, the passenger checks in at one of 30 new automated kiosks, scanning their device and receiving a printout confirming their flight details. They can also load their bags onto a conveyor belt at the kiosk, skipping the lines at a manual baggage check desk. Once passengers are checked in, departure gates and a passenger lounge are also accessible using the ePass system.
The new check-in system will be introduced at the Auckland airport’s domestic terminal, followed by airports in Christchurch and Wellington before the end of the year. Smaller airports will also be updated, with a total of 114 of the new kiosks eventually being placed throughout the country. ![[end]](/resources/bullet/rfidnews-4.gif)
