Passengers flying from Jersey to London Heathrow will now be able to check in their hold luggage the evening before they travel in a bid to reduce queues at Jersey Airport.
The new Twilight Bag Drop service, which comes into effect on Thursday, allows British Airways customers travelling on Heathrow flights departing before midday to drop off their checked luggage between 4.30pm and 8pm the day before their flight.
Airport bosses say the initiative is aimed at making journeys smoother by reducing the amount passengers need to do on the morning of departure.
Jersey Airport head of terminal and transformation Jamie Loudon said: “Twilight Bag Drop is about making travel easier and more convenient for our customers.
“By giving passengers the option to check in and drop off their hold luggage the evening before travel, it provides greater flexibility and removes part of the airport journey from the day of departure.
“Customers can arrive at the airport knowing their bags have already been processed, giving them more time to relax and focus on the start of their trip.”
The airport said the service would be particularly useful for families, groups, passengers travelling with sports equipment or multiple bags, and those who need extra time before travelling.
Customers using the service can also take advantage of 30 minutes’ free parking in the airport’s long-stay car park when dropping off their luggage.
Twilight Bag Drop is initially available only for British Airways Heathrow services, but Jersey Airport said it plans to extend the scheme to additional airlines, destinations and selected charter flights in future.
Passengers must have checked in online with British Airways before using the service.
The airport stressed that the new scheme does not change its recommended arrival times, with travellers still advised to arrive at least two hours before departure, or 90 minutes before early morning “red eye” flights.
