SOLOMON Islands’ national carrier, Solomon Airlines, is pleased to announce the successful implementation of International Air Transport Through Check-In (IATCI) capability with Air Niugini, further strengthening regional connectivity between the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea.
The new capability allows passengers travelling on eligible connecting Solomon Airlines and Air Niugini services to be through-checked, with boarding passes issued for both flight sectors and baggage tagged through to their final destination.
The live tests were successfully completed last weekend, enabling seamless connections between Saturday Air Niugini flight PX082 from Port Moresby to Honiara and Solomon Airlines flight IE702 from Honiara to Nadi, and between IE703 from Nadi to Honiara, connecting with PX083 to Port Moresby. Both tests confirmed that the through-check-in functionality is operating in both directions.
The new capability provides greater convenience for passengers connecting between the two airlines. Passengers can receive their onward boarding passes at their point of departure and have their baggage checked through to their final destination, reducing the need to collect and re-check baggage during transit.
“This is another positive step in strengthening our partnership with Air Niugini and improving the travel experience for our passengers. Through-check-in provides greater convenience for those travelling between our networks and supports our ongoing commitment to improving regional connectivity.”
Matthew Findlay Chief Executive Officer, Solomon Airlines.
Air Niugini Chief Executive Officer, Alan Milne said “Through-check-in is a practical improvement that makes connecting between our two airlines easier and more convenient for passengers. By allowing eligible passengers to receive their onward boarding passes and have their baggage checked through to their final destination, we are removing some of the complexities associated with connecting travel.
“ More importantly, this reflects the value of cooperation between Pacific carriers in improving travel across our region. We are pleased to work with Solomon Airlines on initiatives that strengthen the links between Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and other destinations, while creating a more connected travel experience for our customers.” Mr Milne said
Solomon Airlines acknowledges the teams from both airlines involved in delivering this initiative and looks forward to continuing to build on this partnership to provide greater convenience and connectivity for passengers travelling across the region.
Source: Solomon Airlines