UALoneKplus,

Efforts are currently underway to introduce such a system, called CUPSS (Common Use Passenger Self Service.)

www.guardian.com.au/ng/cupss.htm

I think I read that they're trying it out in Vancouver and Amsterdam.

I think that CUPSS would require an airport that uses CUTE, the Common Use Terminal Environment.

In most USA airports, each airline manages its own systems. The airline has its own computers, gate readers, etc. The carriers also "own" the gates, so they can install the systems long-term.

In most other places, the gates are not "owned." The hardware is all the same, it's able to connect to each different airline's network as needed. It permits carriers to use only the gates, check-in desks, etc. that they need.

There are CUTE systems in a few USA locations: Honolulu, Atlanta Terminal E, JFK Terminal 4, and probably some others.

So we'll see how this pans out... I think it's a great idea. In the meantime, I'll continue to use Delta's telephone check-in--it's just great.

-Mats.