Delta Air to Test Phone Check-In Process

Delta Air Lines Inc. plans to test a telephone check-in process that will let passengers bypass airport counters and go directly to their gates as the third-largest U.S. carrier seeks to shorten customer lines. Some Jacksonville, Fla., frequent-flier customers traveling in the U.S. will be able to use the system if they have an electronic ticket and no bags to check, Delta said. The test is scheduled to start in the third quarter. Under the Atlanta-based carrier’s program, SkyMiles Medallion members in Jacksonville will be able to call a toll-free number to check in and then present a frequent-flier card and photo identification at the gate to board a flight. Delta and other major airlines are looking for ways to reduce customer waiting at airports, where workers are having to handle more travelers. Passenger traffic for the top 10 U.S. carriers rose almost 5% last year. Delta shares fell 88 cents to close at $52.81 on the NYSE.

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