British Airways moves to self-service at new Gatwick extension

Will self-service kiosks reduce queues? PA

British Airways passengers will be able to check in and print baggage labels at new kiosks at Gatwick airport.

The new 'Fast Travel' service will be available at a new £73 million extension to Gatwick's North Terminal.

The area, which will house all British Airways services at the airport will allow passengers to do more for themselves, from checking in and choosing seats to printing their own baggage tags.

BA customer service staff will be on hand to help passengers use the self-service kiosks.

Dedicated 'care desks' will be available to travellers needing additional help. There will also be a separate area for premium passengers.

Airport chief executive Stewart Wingate told Travel Weekly: "Our £1.2 billion investment programme to transform the airport experience for passengers, reducing queues and delivering a smoother check-in experience with more self-service options has been one of our key priorities.

"The new British Airways check-in area, which is part of our £73 million investment to extend the North Terminal arrivals area, is a fantastic example of innovation and is evidence that they, like Gatwick, are putting the emphasis on delivering excellent customer service for the passenger."

The International Air Transport Association has awarded the airline a 'Gold' award in recognition of its investment in new technology at Gatwick.

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