The holidays are upon us, as is the dreaded peak travel season. Long queues are undoubtedly a major source of airport stress, so it’s good that airlines like Jetstar are advocating for the use of Fast and Seamless Travel (FAST) check-in at Singapore Changi Airport (IATA: SIN).
The FAST initiative has benefited many passengers thus far, and it will, for sure, benefit our homecoming kababayans who are flying Jetstar to Manila and Clark this holiday season.
FAST check-in involves self check-in kiosks and self baggage drops. These two things are quite self-explanatory, but regardless, here’s a walkthrough based on my personal experience:
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A self check-in kiosk will ask for details like booking confirmation code and flight number, so make sure a copy of your ticket is ready. Also note how many bags you are checking in.
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After inputting details, the kiosk will ask for a scan of your passport information page.
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The machine will print out boarding passes and bag tags.
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Before coming to the self baggage drop belts, be sure to weigh your bags to avoid paying excess fees and errors. There are free luggage scales nearby.
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Affix your baggage tags onto your luggage as instructed. Make sure your bag does not have any other airline luggage stickers/tags.
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When you’re ready, take your baggage to a belt and scan your boarding pass. The belt will automatically move your baggage in, and you’re done!
There are six bullet points above, but really, the process is quick and seamless in real life—although I must admit sticking luggage tags needs a bit of practice and patience. Still, this method, for me, is better than the conventional check-in that entails minutes of waiting (and for introverts, interaction with a human).
For those who are having difficulties, there are staff supervising the area to assist, and for those who need to show entry requirements like visas, there also is a document check counter.
The service goes hand-in-hand with the automated exit immigration check, which we Filipinos fortunately are qualified to use, making traveling out of Singapore Changi Airport Terminal 1 even faster.
Anyway, here’s a fun video guide by Jetstar:
NOTES
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FAST check-in is available for those flying on Jetstar Asia (flight code 3K) from Singapore to Manila, Clark, Bangkok, Da Nang, Denpasar, Haikou, Hat Yai, Ho Chi Minh City, Hong Kong, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Medan, Okinawa (Naha), Palembang, Pekanbaru, Penang, Phnom Penh, Phuket, Shantou, Siem Reap, Surabaya, Taipei, and Yangon.
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FAST check-in may only be done by individual passengers and groups of up to seven in one ticket.
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Those with special requests (e.g. wheelchair assistance), as well as those with outstanding balance, may not use FAST check-in.
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Manual check-in counters, although fewer than before, are still available.
