Scandinavian Airlines Offers Wi-Fi and Skype in Business Lounges

Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) is offering passengers wireless internet and the ability to place calls using Skype phones in their Business Lounges. According to the press release, the Skype phones will be provided in the lounges. I’m not really sure how the phones are provided, but I know that is a great resource for business travelers.

In addition, Business and Economy Extra passengers only need to report to the gate 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time. I have mixed feelings on this. It’s great to not have to sit at the gate for 45 minutes to an hour, but I don’t see how they’ll ever get off the ground on time. When you have a plane full of passengers who have to put away carry-on bags, stow their coats and find their seats, it’s going to take more than 15 minutes. I’m sure this means they’ll board economy first and then the Business and Economy Extra passengers, but I just don’t know how that will work out.

Finally, SAS is revamping their check in notifications. Customers will receive check in notification service via e-mail and text message. 22 hours before a flight is due to depart, passengers will automatically be notified via text or e-mail that they can now check in for their flight. I like that they’ll send a text. You aren’t always online at the time you receive that email, so this will help for flights at odd times. Like Chiltern Railways in the UK, SAS is investing in technology which will enable customers to receive a digital boarding pass direct to their mobile phones, allowing them to use their phones to “swipe” through the airport.

Via Internet Travel News.