Document checking system launched by Star Alliance

Star Alliance has launched a new automatic document checking system that will reportedly ease travel for passengers, particularly those on itineraries that cover several countries.

The Auto Doc Check facility will be used at check-in counters and will provide a 'yes', 'no' or 'conditional' response on whether a passenger has the necessary documents to travel.

Singapore Airlines will be the first Star Alliance carrier to implement the system and more airlines are expected to make use of it in the future.

As an example of when the system could prove useful, Star Alliance said that a person with a British passport travelling from Singapore to Australia and then on to South Africa could find out if they need a visa for any part of their journey.

Auto Doc Check could also boost off-airport check-in initiatives, as it will be available to people checking in online and using self-service kiosks at airports.

Lee Hock Lye, vice-president of products and services at Star Alliance, said: "Up to now it has often been a challenge for check-in personnel and passengers to keep current about what documents are needed for travelling abroad.

"With 'state-of-the-art technology' now evaluating the passenger's travel documents and deciding if the passenger is allowed to travel, Auto Doc Check is taking the guesswork out this decision."

The system was developed following consultation with 11 of Star Alliance's group of member airlines, which includes bmi, Lufthansa and United Airlines.

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