Emirates passengers fly through Dubai Airport

From now on Emirates passengers carrying only hand luggage can bypass check-in and proceed directly through passport control and security to their boarding gate.

This major development has been facilitated by the introduction of a new, home-printed e-boarding pass (eBP). Passengers with check-in baggage may also use the eBP, in conjunction with the 'Quick Bag drop' counters.

Dale Griffith, Divisional Senior Vice President Emirates Airport Services, said:

'Emirates is one of the first airlines in the Middle East to launch eBPs. The objective of this initiative is to provide customers with more control of their trip, more flexibility and value-added services that enhance the journey.'

'By printing an eBP at home, customers reduce or eliminate standing in queues at the airport. By automating processes we are able to bring about efficiencies that will provide a seamless customer passage starting at home, continuing through the airport, and all the way to the aircraft.'

The eBP was developed by Emirates Airport Services, and is launched in collaboration with Dubai Police, Immigration and Security.

It carries an IATA-approved 2D barcode which can be read at all of the boarding gates on the network that are equipped with a scanner, enabling customers to be accepted for their onward journey.

Airports without scanners can still board passengers holding an eBP using the Departure Control System, as the required data is also printed on the eBP. Alternately, airport staff can re-issue a traditional boarding pass by accessing the onward flight information, which is printed on the eBP.

eBPs, along with RFID Baggage trials, are initiatives that are led by Emirates Airport Services to bring about improvements in the way Emirates cares for its customers.