Early departure testLux-Airport seeks to improve quality of service

RTL Lëtzebuerg
adapted for RTL Today
In December, Luxair and lux-Airport conducted tests to improve preparation for morning departures. Further tests will be held over the coming months following positive results.
© Domingos Oliveira

A joint statement released by the airline and airport on Friday shared their successful attempts at improving morning flight preparation in the early hours. The tests were conducted between 18 and 20 December, with the goal of improving punctuality and optimising passenger experience through enhancing existing procedures prior to the first flights, to make them more efficient.

Luxembourg’s airport faces a particular operational challenge. The majority of Luxair aircraft are stationed at Findel overnight, resulting in many flights departing in quick succession early in the morning. As flights are only allowed to depart from 6am onwards, the first 90 minutes of the day are crucial in determining Luxair’s daily flight plan.

Testers spent three days observing a number of operational aspects early in the morning:

  • Opening check-in from 3.45am, allowing travellers to drop off their baggage and complete any formalities as early as possible.
  • Opening security from 4am to allow passengers to reach the gates faster.
  • Advancing the off-block time by 15 minutes, so a fully prepared aircraft can depart at 6am sharp.
  • Improving coordination between Luxair, Lux-Airport, and Luxair services on site to ensure all departures are correctly coordinated.

Management are happy with the positive results of the tests, with both companies observing measurable improvements in punctuality, passenger distribution, and check-in processes. Customers also welcomed the changes with positive feedback. Luxair CEO Gilles Feith and Lux-Airport CEO Alexander Flassak underlined the value of their cooperation, confirming that teamwork and proactive planning were vital for the operation of the airport. Now all stakeholders will ensure that the improvements can be carried over into daily operations.

Further tests to take place:

  • Organising check-in area with clear zones for economy, priority, and drop-off.
  • Promoting online and evening check-in.
  • Maintenance of floorwalkers and service staff to support passengers.
  • Aligning check-in and baggage control opening hours for better coordination.
  • Additional opportunities to improve communication and signage at the airport.

More joint testing will take place in the Easter holidays in order to adapt the flight plan for the summer and to ensure improvements. Luxair and Lux-Airport thank passengers for their patience and understanding during this initiative.

Press release below (in French):

Luxair lux-Airport Early Departure Test

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