Aligned with IATA standards for mobile check-in

The global umbrella organisation for the airline industry, IATA (International Air Transport Association), which represents 240 airlines, has launched a global standard which aims to speed up the adoption of mobile phone check-in services within the airline industry. Easy MMS provides a 2D barcode mobile check-in service which supports the agreed IATA standards (DataMatrix, Aztec and QR).

Why SMS?

Easy MMS uses SMS technology in message delivery because of its simplicity, ubiquity, interoperability and cost. The SMS technology enables airlines to reach passengers reliably and quickly even when roaming internationally.

Due to interoperability agreements between international mobile operators, Easy MMS has a far more ubiquitous network reach than standard MMS.

Easy MMS sends 2D barcodes using a WAP-hyperlink

Easy MMS is sent to the passenger’s handset with a hyperlink (URL address) which provides access to the 2D barcode boarding pass:

• The 2-dimensional barcode is delivered by the airline to TynTec via a chosen encrypted interface. The barcode is then stored in a Tyntec-maintained database and a hyperlink generated.
• The hyperlink plus any additional information about the flight is sent to the passenger’s mobile phone.
• When receiving the message, the passenger clicks on the hyperlink and a WAP or web session begins on the phone of the traveler.
• The TynTec server which stores the barcode identifies the handset-type/model of the session type (WAP or web) and transcodes the image so that it can be optimised for the specific handset.
• Once the barcode is loaded onto the phone, a download confirmation is stored in the TynTec database. The barcode is scanned at the security check point as well as at the gate when entering the plane.

Airlines are sent a delivery receipt directly from the mobile phone of the traveler confirming that the message has been received and that the barcode has been downloaded.

Benefits of using Easy MMS for the airline

• Easy MMS is an innovative solution offering an improved quality of mobile service for frequent business travelers.
• The 2D barcode solution is cheaper than existing magnetic strip boarding pass technology, and follows the new global standard set by IATA.
• Due to TynTec’s direct network access and delivery receipt technology, airlines will get a full audit trail of the check-in/booking communication process.

Fast check-in service for frequent on-the-move passengers

Travelers also take advantage of a speedy and reliable m-boarding service:

• The mobile check-in is a time-saving, value-added service for frequent business travelers.
• Even if the traveler wants to stop at a kiosk or service counter to get the paper boarding pass, travelers can still benefit from all of the other SMS services offered by the airline.