Passenger Ticketing and Check-in Flashcards

A passenger with a confirmed reservation is involuntarily denied boarding on a flight that is oversold. According to DOT regulations, under which circumstance would the airline NOT be required to pay compensation?

Answer: The airline arranges alternate transportation scheduled to arrive at the passenger's final destination within one hour of their original arrival time.

U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations state that if an airline can arrange alternate transportation that is scheduled to arrive at the passenger's destination or first stopover within one hour of the original flight's arrival time, no compensation is required for involuntary denied boarding.

A passenger is checking in for an international flight and requires a wheelchair for mobility assistance from the check-in counter to the boarding gate, as they can walk short distances but cannot manage stairs. Which IATA Special Service Request (SSR) code should be entered into the reservation?

Answer: WCHS (Wheelchair-S for Steps)

The IATA SSR code WCHS is used to indicate that the passenger requires a wheelchair and cannot ascend or descend stairs but can make their own way to/from the cabin seat. WCHC is for passengers who are completely immobile. BLND and DEAF are for passengers with visual or hearing impairments, respectively.

During check-in, a customer service agent notices a passenger's checked bag exceeds the standard weight limit of 50 lbs (23 kgs). Which of the following is the most appropriate initial action?

Answer: Advise the passenger of the overweight bag fee and ask if they would like to pay it or repack.

Standard airline procedure for an overweight bag is to inform the passenger of the issue and provide them with options. This typically includes paying the applicable overweight baggage fee or repacking items into another bag to meet the weight requirements.

A family of four is checking in, and the agent confirms their e-tickets. What is the primary purpose of the boarding pass issued to each passenger after check-in is complete?

Answer: To provide authorization to pass through the security checkpoint and board the aircraft.

A boarding pass is the document that grants a passenger permission to proceed through airport security and to board a specific flight. It contains essential information like the passenger's name, flight number, gate, and seat assignment. While it's related to the ticket, it is not the purchase receipt. Luggage claim information is on a separate baggage receipt.

A passenger attempts to check in for a domestic flight 20 minutes before the scheduled departure time. The airline's cut-off time for check-in is 30 minutes prior to departure. Which of the following is the most likely outcome?

Answer: The passenger may be denied check-in and could forfeit their seat.

Airlines have strict check-in deadlines to ensure on-time departures. If a passenger arrives after the cut-off time, the airline has the right to deny check-in and cancel their reservation, potentially causing them to forfeit the value of the ticket depending on the fare rules.

What is the primary function of a Common Use Passenger Processing System (CUPPS) at an airport check-in area?

Answer: To allow multiple airlines to share the same check-in desks, gates, and other equipment.

CUPPS is a standard that allows airlines and ground handlers to use the same physical equipment (check-in counters, gate podiums) for passenger processing, regardless of the airline. This increases airport efficiency and flexibility.