The advent of digital technology: your smartphone becomes your key to everything
For several years now, the airline industry has undergone a complete shift towards digitization. The majority of passengers now prefer mobile boarding passes, which are received by email or available via online check-in.
The advantages are undeniable:
- Save time: No need to wait in line at the kiosks or counter if you don't have any checked baggage.
- Environmental responsibility: Using less printed paper is another step toward protecting the planet, a value that is important to us.
- Peace of mind: Your ticket can no longer fly away on the tarmac or get left behind on the kitchen table. It's in your phone, that device we always keep close at hand.
Is a paper boarding pass still necessary?
Let's be clear: in the vast majority of cases, the answer is no. For almost all routes operated by Chalair, simply presenting the QR code for your booking on your screen is sufficient to pass through security and board the plane. Please note: online check-in is not available for departures from Ajaccio, Pau, Nice, Strasbourg, Geneva, and Kerry. You will need to check in directly at the airport counter to collect your paper boarding pass.
However, paper has not quite had its final say. The need for a physical version may arise in very specific contexts:
- Dead batteries: It's Murphy's Law. Your phone decides to shut down at the exact moment the ticket inspector asks to see your ticket.
- Technical bugs: A broken screen that makes it impossible to scan the QR code, or an app that refuses to open without an internet connection.
- Certain international destinations: Although Chalair focuses on regional and local routes, some airports outside the Schengen area still sometimes require a physical document for administrative stamps.
Our tips for traveling with peace of mind
To ensure you are never caught off guard, here are a few habits adopted by frequent travelers:
- Screenshot: Don't rely on the airport's Wi-Fi. Take a screenshot of your boarding pass as soon as you receive it. It will be accessible in your photo gallery, even in airplane mode.
- The digital wallet: Use apps (Apple Wallet or Google Pay) to centralize your tickets. They often appear automatically on your lock screen as your flight time approaches.
- Plan B: If you are prone to anxiety, print out your map but leave it at the bottom of your bag. It should only be used in an absolute emergency.
The Chalair commitment: proximity above all else
At Chalair, we prioritize a smooth passenger journey. Whether you are a fan of the latest smartphones or prefer the tactile feel of paper, our ground staff are always available to assist you. If you encounter any technical difficulties upon arrival at the airport, our teams will be on hand to help you, ensuring that your need for mobility is never hindered by a simple piece of paper.
The choice is yours.
Paper boarding passes are no longer mandatory, but they remain a reassuring backup option for some. Digital is now the norm due to its speed and convenience. The important thing is not the medium, but the destination!
Photo Freepik