Airlines have begun making it possible to have a boarding pass using a 2D bar code to check in via PDA and/or Cell Phone.  Here is Continental Airlines’ website regarding this new innovation.

In principle, this is a great innovation for many travelers but it comes with some warnings not mentioned by any airlines at present.  If you are a true frequent flier then you are likely aware that sometimes your mileage isn’t credit from a flight now and then.  Airlines require that you send a copy of your boarding pass to prove the credit. 

Airlines such as Air Canada and Continental have not figured out how to give you credit when you have a PDA/Cell Phone boarding pass.  So, if you try out this option, buyer beware for now anyway.

Ultimately, this is a great innovation and choosing this option does not prohibit you from having a boarding pass printed at check-in (generally by swiping a credit card) so if your cellphone / PDA isn’t working, you’re still covered. 

Filed under: Airline News, Airline Service, Travel Hints by ajax