The Antigua and Barbuda Ministry of Tourism has said that although not a new innovation to the global airline industry, the introduction of some four self-service check-in kiosks to the American Airlines check-in facility at the VC Bird International Airport is definitely a newly welcomed feature to the aviation and tourism industry of the country.
Operations Manager of the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority Edward Gilkes says that the feature sets new parameters to the operations at the VC Bird International Airport and not only will the kiosks afford travellers the opportunity to save time and ease the pressures of travel, but it will aid in the elimination of airport congestion at peak periods.

The airline announced Friday that it has installed four self-service check-in devices, making them the first airline to introduce the technology to the island.

Self-service check-in allows customers to not only check-in for their flights, but to select their seats, check-in their bags, print their boarding passes and obtain electronic receipts.

CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Coin James, who was present at the launch ceremony said, "This innovation by American Airlines is welcomed by the tourism fraternity as it shows that the company listens to the feedback from their passengers and industry stakeholders, and is constantly seeking ways to upgrade their service.

"The kiosks will be a welcome feature to our international airport and will no doubt enhance the overall visitor experience by expediting the departure process for American Airlines passengers.”

Members of the aviation and tourism fraternity were on hand last Friday for the launch ceremony which took place amongst staff of American Airlines along with well-wishers.