For those who think this is all too crazy, Air NZ domestic hasn't gone quite as far but does have something similar. For online bookings you are checked in when you book. Turn up at airport and get baggage tag at kiosk (plus boarding pass if you didn't print it out at home). Self drop bags directly onto conveyor belt. The limited check in desks are for those who need help (eg have international connections).
Those without bags to check can simply turn up at the gate 10 minutes before departure.
Originally Posted by
alanR
As for checked luggage, I suspect it's something they haven't thought through - no airport is going to allow passengers to mill around on the tarmac trying to put their luggage in the hold or waiting to get it at the other end. It's certain to b*gg*r up their schedules
Of course they could just force everyone to drop their bags into a standard luggage container and then deliver that to the plane
Plenty of airports do allow bags to be checked at the steps of the aircraft. Typically on smaller aircraft where normal sized carryons do not fit. Depending on the airport there may or may not be a trolley to deposit bags in, or pax pass them directly to a ground crew member to load.