bmi has launched its first online check-in service to give passengers
the flexibility to check-in when and where they want, spending
less time at the airport.Online check-in is the latest initiative to be introduced by the airline
as it continues to implement a new business model for London Heathrow.
The new model, launched last year after research undertaken with 10,000
of its passengers, is aimed at giving choice and control back to the
customer. Changes already introduced by the airline include new low-cost
one-way fares from Heathrow, a single class cabin and paid-for catering
on most short-haul routes. A separate business class cabin is still
offered on routes from Heathrow to Belfast, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dublin
and Brussels where the demand still exists.

The new service allows passengers travelling with bmi to choose from
four different ways to check-in for their flight:
á online check-in: the new system takes passengers through a five step
process to check-in using their booking reference number or credit card
details. Once the boarding card is printed passengers then arrive at the
airport and take any luggage to the bmi bag drop

á self check-in: for travellers who prefer to check-in at the airport
bmi has installed new self check-in stations. In addition to printing
the boarding card the new system also allows passengers to check-in
their colleagues if they are travelling on a premium economy or business
fare

á bmi web point: passengers can book a flight, check-in online or view
their diamond club membership details at these new web points. Directly
linked to www.flybmi.com, bmi has installed these new points at
Heathrow, Glasgow and Edinburgh and also in the bmi business lounges at
Heathrow and Manchester

á priority check-in: for those travelling premium economy or business
class passengers can check-in at one of the bmi priority desks

Commenting on the launch, bmi chief executive Nigel Turner, said:
“This service is another example of bmi giving choice back to the
customer. The new business model being implemented across our business
has already delivered a unique new fare structure that gives real
flexibility and choice, high service standards and the fastest possible
transit through the airport. The initiatives we are now introducing will
further enhance our position as Britain’s most punctual airline at
Heathrow.  bmi is providing the services for a new generation of
business travellers who want premium quality travel at an economic
price.”

The new fare structure allows passengers to opt for a new tiny fare
starting from £29.99 one way including all airport taxes and charges.
The tiny fare is available on all short-haul services from London
Heathrow and can only be booked online.

For travellers who want a premium service at an economy price they can
opt for the new premium economy fare. This fare gives passengers the
flexibility to change their flight booking, receive priority check-in
and bag tagging, gain access to the business class lounge and a choice
of seating on the aircraft.
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