Originally Posted by
Seattlenerd
Statement from AS on
GeekWire:
Just got off the phone with Paul McElroy, spokesman for Alaska Airlines. He told us that while the airline wishes they could allow customers to use their devices right away, it’s going to take some time to make the proper changes. For example, Alaska Airlines needs conduct further testing that the FAA requires and update its operations manuals, passenger emergency cards and captain PA announcements.
“We are looking forward to giving customers more flexibility and are eager to do so,” McElroy said. “We appreciate their patience while we take care of these final steps.”
Ugh, why are you always so SLOW Alaska?
Delta: "as early as this Friday"
American: "as soon as we receive approval from the FAA"
JetBlue: "as early as this afternoon"
Alaska: "going to take some time [...] conduct further testing [...] blah blah blah"
Every other PreCheck airline notes PreCheck status on BP's no matter where they're issued. AS STILL doesn't have it on web, mobile, kiosk, or in-person checkin. I'm not counting on ground usage of electronics anytime in 2013.
My prediction: at least 4 of AA/DL/UA/US/WN will allow ground electronics by the end of the year, but AS will not allow it until sometime in 2014.