ACC Passenger Check-in and Boarding Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A passenger with a multi-segment itinerary fails to show up for their first flight without notifying the airline. According to most airline 'no-show' clauses, what is the most likely consequence for the remainder of their ticketed journey?
- The remaining segments will be automatically cancelled without a refund. (Correct answer)
- The passenger will be automatically rebooked on the next available flight for all segments.
- A 'no-show' fee will be charged, but the remaining reservations will be held for 24 hours.
- The airline will upgrade the passenger on the remaining segments as a courtesy.
Correct answer: The remaining segments will be automatically cancelled without a refund.
Most airlines have a 'no-show' policy stating that if a passenger misses the first flight of an itinerary without prior notification, all subsequent flights on that same ticket, including return or connecting flights, will be automatically cancelled. The value of the ticket is often forfeited.
Question 2: Which of the following is the PRIMARY document required for a citizen of the United States to check in for an international flight from New York (JFK) to London (LHR)?
- A state-issued driver's license
- A valid U.S. passport (Correct answer)
- A birth certificate
- A credit card used for the ticket purchase
Correct answer: A valid U.S. passport
For all international flights, a valid passport is the primary and essential form of identification required for check-in and immigration purposes. While a driver's license may be used for domestic travel, it is not sufficient for international border crossing.
Question 3: A passenger arrives at the check-in counter for an international flight and self-identifies as needing extra time to board due to a mobility issue. According to regulations like the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), what is the airline required to offer?
- A complimentary upgrade to a seat with more legroom.
- A voucher for a future flight.
- The opportunity to pre-board the aircraft. (Correct answer)
- A refund of any checked baggage fees.
Correct answer: The opportunity to pre-board the aircraft.
Airlines are required to offer pre-boarding to passengers with disabilities who self-identify at the gate as needing additional time or assistance to board the aircraft, stow equipment, or get to their seats. This ensures they can be seated safely and comfortably before general boarding begins.
Question 4: What is the generally recommended minimum arrival time at the airport for a passenger with checked baggage on a domestic flight?
- 30 minutes before departure
- 45 minutes before departure
- 2 hours before departure (Correct answer)
- 3 hours before departure
Correct answer: 2 hours before departure
While specific times can vary by airport and airline, the general industry recommendation is to arrive at least 2 hours before a domestic flight. This allows sufficient time for baggage check-in, security screening, and reaching the departure gate without rushing.
Question 5: During the check-in process, what is the primary purpose of the Departure Control System (DCS)?
- To process in-flight meal and beverage sales.
- To track flight crew schedules and assignments.
- To sell duty-free items to international passengers.
- To assign seats, issue boarding passes, and manage the passenger list for a specific flight. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: To assign seats, issue boarding passes, and manage the passenger list for a specific flight.
The Departure Control System (DCS) is the primary software used by airlines and ground handlers to manage all aspects of passenger processing for a flight. Its key functions include check-in, seat assignment, boarding pass issuance, baggage handling, and flight close-out.
Question 6: A passenger successfully checks in online 24 hours before their international flight but has luggage to check. What is the latest point at which they must typically present their bags at the airline's baggage drop counter?
- Any time before the boarding process begins.
- At least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
- By the airline's specific baggage acceptance cut-off time, often 60-90 minutes before departure. (Correct answer)
- At the boarding gate, just before stepping onto the aircraft.
Correct answer: By the airline's specific baggage acceptance cut-off time, often 60-90 minutes before departure.
Even if a passenger has checked in online, they must still drop off their checked luggage by the airline's mandated cut-off time. For international flights, this is typically 60 minutes, but can be as long as 75 or 90 minutes at some airports, to ensure bags are screened and loaded onto the aircraft.
ACC Passenger Check-in and Boarding Questions and Answers
A passenger with a multi-segment itinerary fails to show up for their first flight without notifying the airline.
According to most airline 'no-show' clauses, what is the most likely consequence for the remainder of their ticketed journey?