IBM takes flight with bmi airport deal

Big Blue to provide self-service check-in solution at several airports across UK and Ireland

New deal will see IBM overhaul bmi's self-service check-in service at several UK airports

IBM has won a contract to overhaul bmi’s self-service check-in systems at several major UK and Ireland airports.

The IBM Self Service Check-In Solution, which is accessible via the internet, mobile devices and airport kiosks, allows passengers to alter flight bookings, print boarding passes and update frequent-flyer information.

The airline hopes the system’s installation at Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dublin and Edinburgh airports will encourage more passengers to use self-service facilities.

Peter Federico, bmi group IT director, said: "IBM's solution has a well-proven track record, being run by many airlines in Europe and around the world. It gives us a unified check-in platform for self-service kiosks, web and mobile devices."

Stuart Wilson, associate partner for travel and transport at IBM Global Business Services, said: “bmi's specially designed self-service check-in system combines intelligent technology and convenience into an innovative solution which allows the airline to meet the challenges of today's competitive market place."