Automation as a game changer in local air travel

Those who have not travelled via commercial air for the past decades maybe disoriented to new ways of booking and flying. Platform on remote automation was the game changer.

Before, one needed to physically go to an airline ticketing office to see flight schedules, seat availability and to book a seat. Now one just does it online. But one has to have a credit or debit card with a security code and an active email address. Booking is done real time with the current rate on a first come first served. There are still a number of ticketing offices spread over the country but mostly only in the airports.

Rates fluctuate depending on the traffic, date and season. The closer to the flight date, the higher the rate.

Passenger patronage has increased so did new air travel destinations. Checks in lines at the airport are longer but operating hours are longer. There too are added ways to check in: using the internet or mobile phone for web check in or the check in kiosk at the airport. All check in processes are secured by a code where physically printed ticket is no longer necessary.

Boarding passes are bar coded and quickly scanned prior to boarding the plane. One has yet to present an ID for security reasons. Terminal fee is now incorporated in the cost reducing check in steps. In an instance, the service crew could identify who checked in but have not boarded the plane.

Security is more stringent. Scanners are installed to speed up the screening. At time sniffing dogs sniff at the luggage for contraband detections. Shoes, wallets, metallic objects, phones and belts are still to be separated from the body.

Flight changes are accommodated at a cost subject to seat availability and should be done hours before the booked schedule. Cost is adjusted based on the prevailing flight rate of the new schedule which is usually at a premium. System determines availability, rates and updates.

Flying distances are earned by the passenger to earn points for premium redemption. This is made possible through a unique identification enrollment. Services are likewise compartmentalized which can be customized at an added cost. One can opt not to check in a luggage, not have an in flight meal nor a premium seating. Food can be ordered in advance, customized and delivered at the designated seat of the passenger. Flight crew is prompted by the monitor.

Through google personalized for the user, departure and arrival times are prompted in the passengers Android phone. It even cites the airline for schedule not on time.

Lastly, because service is done following a routine, do not expect for a personalized service treatment. This is the trade off to a more efficient and safer air travel.

Happy and safe travel.