STRATEGIC PARTNERS
February 24, 2002
PHOENIX - America West Airlines (NYSE:AWA) has joined the roster of airlines offering passengers the choice of ticketing agents or kiosks. The Phoenix-based airline has introduced six self-service, check-in kiosks at its hub at Phoenix's Sky Harbor International Airport.
The kiosks are available for any e-ticketed domestic customers. Passengers activate the kiosk by interesting a credit card; flyers can then check-in, request upgrades, make their own seat assignments and access their frequent-flyer information. The process can take less than a minute, America West said in a news release.
Joe Beery, America West chief information officer and vice president, technologies, said in a news release that the kiosks would provide efficient customer service while reducing costs.
"In light of the Sept. 11 tragedy, it is particularly important to use technology to further our goal of making the travel experience safe but hassle-free," Beery said.
Several airlines, including Air Canada and Delta Air Lines, briefly suspended their kiosk programs following Sept. 11. The Federal Aviation Administration left the kiosks alone when it outlined new security guidelines in the wake of the terrorist attacks.
