Ben Gurion International Airport has launched a new program allowing departing passengers to check in via their cell phones.
The new pilot program allows the passengers to scan their tickets on the cell phones and then go directly to the duty-free area and gate, without having to wait for an agent at the check-in counter.
The system is, however, dependent upon using the self-serve check-in system online at home, or at the self-service machine at the airport, and one must have a smart phone in order to scan a bar code.
The Israel Airports Authority is also planning to install “speed gates” to expedite boarding as well, according to a report posted on the Hebrew-language NRG website.
It’s not clear how security checks will be carried out within the framework of the new system; travelers generally pass through at least five checks prior to reaching the check-in counter, but luggage must be inspected and passengers then pass through a number of other security checks before reaching the aircraft.