Travellers flying with Hawaiian Airlines may soon spend less time waiting in airport lines. The airline has announced a transition to new self-service bag tag stations, a move designed to simplify the check-in process and reduce congestion in airport lobbies.
A faster and more digital check-in process
The new stations allow passengers to print and attach their own luggage tags before dropping their bags at designated areas. Instead of completing most check-in steps at the airport counter, travellers will be encouraged to check-in online or through the airline’s mobile app before arriving at the airport. Once they arrive, they can scan their boarding pass at the kiosk to print a baggage tag and attach it to their luggage.
The airline says the update is part of a broader effort to modernise the airport experience. Many travellers already check in online or on their phones, and the new system aims to build on that trend by making the airport portion of the process quicker and easier.
Shelly Parker, head of Hawaii guest operations, explained:
“These added options complement the broader upgrades we’re making across our digital platforms-including our website, mobile app, and new lobby technology for our agents-to help guests move from the lobby to the gate with greater ease. For guests who may be unable to check in prior to arriving at the airport or need additional assistance, our guest service agents will be available to help them at the service counter.”
Rolling out across airports
The process is designed to be quick. According to the airline, tagging a bag at the airport can take less than a minute once a passenger has already checked in and prepaid for luggage.
The new technology will first be introduced at the airline’s five airports in Hawaii, with installations beginning in phases. The system will then expand to the airline’s mainland U.S. and international airport lobbies, with the full rollout expected by mid-April.
The change is also connected to the airline’s ongoing technology integration with Alaska Airlines. The two carriers have already implemented similar bag-tag systems in Alaska Airlines’ airport lobbies, where the company reports improvements in wait times and overall passenger experience.
Airlines around the world have been investing in self-service technology as a way to speed up airport processes and reduce long lines. For Hawaiian Airlines, the goal is to make the start of the trip less stressful and more efficient for passengers.
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