SITA has unveiled innovative and flexible new passenger services in collaboration with major Australian carrier, Virgin Australia. The check-in services were launched in November at the new domestic terminal at Perth Airport and include the world’s first single hardware common-use hybrid desks that can quickly switch from self-service bag drop mode to full-service traditional counters. SITA’s new solution enables the airline to provide varying levels of self-service based on airline and passenger preferences all from the one common-use platform.
Ilya Gutlin, SITA President, Asia Pacific, said: “This is a very exciting time for both Virgin Australia and SITA. The airline’s new domestic terminal at Perth Airport has been designed to manage passengers quickly and with the level of service they want. Working together with Virgin Australia has allowed us to combine our innovative ideas and deliver this ground-breaking technology.”
SITA worked closely with Virgin Australia to deliver the new technology which enables the high-touch service for which Virgin Australia is renowned, while also empowering guests to manage their own experience for both check-in and baggage drop. SITA is the overall technology lead delivering the solution on their global AirportConnect® Open common-use platform with tight integration from their partners Daifuku BCS for baggage management and Vedaleon Technologies for application software.
The hybrid desks are the world’s first implementation of the latest IATA specifications which support both agent desk operations and self-service bag drop using a single set of hardware. They set a new standard for airports not only in Australia but around the world.
This project has redefined Virgin Australia’s guest experience in Perth. The project combines the service leadership Virgin Australia is renowned for with the unmatched airport systems know-how within SITA, which has a presence at more than 1,000 of the world’s airports.