China Southern Airlines introduced an innovative “instant boarding” service for its Guangzhou-Beijing round-trip route on July 8.

It now allows passengers to bypass the traditional check-in counter closure, which typically occurs 30 to 40 minutes before departure. Instead, travelers can board aircraft as long as they arrive at the departure gate 15 minutes prior to the scheduled takeoff in the latest.

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The implementation of smart technology makes the service particularly beneficial for those making last-minute changes, taking emergency trips, or catching early or late flights, as well as for frequent business travelers.

It's important to note that the luggage check-in deadline remains 30 minutes before departure. Passengers who miss the deadline may have their luggage sent on a subsequent flight for later pickup. They can also opt for the “Luggage Delivery to Home” service for a fee.

China Southern Airlines has pledged to expand the “instant boarding” service to more routes in the future.

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This article is translated by China Daily from the original report in Chinese as published on the official website of Shenzhen Commercial Daily.