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Air New Zealand Takes In-Flight Service to a New Level
These days, airline passengers expect the worst when they embark on a flight. Yes, they will still get a free bag of salted peanuts, but often have to pay $5 for a beverage to wash them down. Not all airlines are toning down the in-flight offerings, however. Air New Zealand is doing just the opposite by introducing a new breed of air service personnel, the airborne concierge.
According to Scott Carr, ANZ's GM in Europe, the airline thinks the new service will add to their customers' travel experience.
"The concierge service is about adding a personal touch to the whole flight experience, from booking, to check-in, to arrival and beyond."
The concierge on duty is charged with aiding passengers with everything from check-in to finding the appropriate gate to booking hotels and finding connecting flights.
Will this become a new trend in the often impersonal world of airline travel? Surely other airlines will be watching closely to see if the service is well-received of if it seems redundant. Concierge workers take to the sky on the London to L.A. route this week. Their Auckland-based peers will work flights between L.A, and Auckland. Eventually, the service will be offered for the airline's London to Hong Kong route as well.
Photo: Flickr user Chris&Steve
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Brenda SFO Jul 23rd 2008 1:52PM
I really enjoy flying Air New Zealand's international business class, it's among the best flights that I've experienced.
I'm curious though as to how the airborne concierge will work for every passenger. Does the concierge walk up and down the aisle of the aircraft taking notes from passengers who need concierge service? Will the concierge have a little desk with a phone tucked away in the corner of the aircraft where they will be busy finding hotels, arranging birthday cakes, and researching connecting gates?
I think it's a fabulous idea, and could put some of the glamour and luxury back into flying, and am curious as to how it works. I hope it works out well for them, and that other international airlines follow suit. I suspect that Singapore and Emirates will jump on the bandwagon immediately!
Secret Asian Man Jul 24th 2008 2:55AM
But will they store your 95 lbs luggage in the overhead bin for you?