London-based travel technology startup AirPortr has today (October 11) launched its new AirPortr + Bag Check-In service for British Airways (BA) passengers. For a fee, the company will collect the passenger’s luggage from anywhere in London, before transporting and depositing the baggage at the destination airport. The AirPortr service enables passengers to travel completely luggage free, until they reach baggage reclaim at their destination.
The service provides an ideal solution for travelers with a late flight or early hotel check-out and helps to reduce the stress of dragging heavy luggage onto public transport during busy periods.
Philip Osmond, director of airport transformation at British Airways, said, “We are always looking at innovative ways in which to give our customers more choice and improve their journeys. We are excited to launch this exclusive service, delivered by AirPortr, which will offer an even smoother travel experience.”
Randel Darby, CEO, AirPortr, said, “The service is a game changer in international travel. The industry has managed to digitize the passport control process and successfully introduced paper-free boarding utilizing smart phone technology. However, the one element of air travel that remained stuck in the twentieth century was luggage and how to make the process more seamless. That is the problem we have sought to address.
“Luggage free travel is a complex area and beset by all kinds of logistical roadblocks. I am thrilled AirPortr + Bag Check-In is able to offer an accessible yet innovative service that benefits smart travelers.”
AirPortr will deliver any size or weight item of luggage to London Heathrow, London Gatwick and London City airports with bags checked in from a London address. Prices start from £20 (US$25) for pick-up from a local airport area for the first bag, £30 (US$37) from central London and £40 (US$49) from outer London. There is also a charge of £10 (US$12) per additional bag.