Standard Interline Passenger Procedures

Interline travel refers to a journey that involves multiple airlines on a single itinerary. This allows for seamless travel between different destinations without the need to purchase separate tickets for each airline segment. Interline procedures ensure a smooth transition between airlines, including baggage handling, ticketing, and customer service.

When renting a car at an airport, you may be able to take advantage of interline agreements to simplify the process of picking up and returning your vehicle.

How it differs from single-airline travel:

• Multiple airlines: Interline travel involves more than one airline, while single airline travel is confined to a single carrier.
• Single itinerary: Interline agreements allow for a single itinerary to be issued for the entire journey, simplifying the booking process.
• Baggage transfer: Interline agreements ensure that your baggage is transferred between airlines without the need for additional handling.
• Customer service: Interline agreements provide a framework for coordinating customer service between the involved airlines.

Australian Airlines Participating in Interline Agreements

Australia has a robust network of airlines that participate in interline agreements, both domestically and internationally. Some of the major Australian airlines involved in interline arrangements include:

• Qantas: https://www.qantas.com/
• Virgin Australia: https://www.virginaustralia.com/
• Jetstar Airways: https://www.jetstar.com/au/en/home
• Rex Airlines: https://www.rex.com.au/
• Tigerair Australia: [invalid URL removed]

These airlines often have interline agreements with international carriers, allowing for seamless travel to and from Australia.

Coverage of domestic and international routes: Interline agreements between Australian airlines and international carriers enable passengers to travel seamlessly between Australia and various destinations worldwide. This expands travel options and provides greater flexibility for passengers.

Additional Information

• Interline agreements are beneficial for travellers: They simplify the booking process, reduce the hassle of handling multiple tickets, and ensure a smoother travel experience.
• Interline agreements are regulated: Interline agreements are regulated by international organisations such as the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
• Check with your airline: If you are planning interline travel, it’s recommended to check with your airline to confirm their interline agreements and any specific requirements.
• Utilise online resources: There are online tools and resources available to help you plan interline travel and find the best deals.

By understanding interline procedures and the benefits they offer, you can make the most of your travel experience in Australia and beyond.

Booking Interline Flights

Process of Booking a Multi-Airline Itinerary

Booking an interline flight involves the following steps:

1. Choose your destinations: Select your departure and arrival cities, as well as any connecting cities or stopovers.
2. Search for flights: Use an online travel agent or the websites of the participating airlines to search for available flights.
3. Select an itinerary: Choose the itinerary that best suits your needs and preferences, considering factors such as flight times, layovers, and prices.
4. Book your flight: Once you’ve selected an itinerary, proceed with the booking process. You’ll typically need to provide passenger information, payment details, and any special requests.

Using airline websites or travel agencies: You can book interline flights directly through the websites of the participating airlines or by using an online travel agent. Both options have their advantages:

• Airline websites: Offer direct access to the airline’s fares, schedules, and policies.
• Travel agencies: Can provide personalised assistance and help you find the best deals.

Check-in and Baggage Handling

Through check-in procedures:

• Single check-in: When booking an interline flight, you can typically check-in for your entire journey at the first departure airport.
• Baggage transfer: Your baggage will be transferred between airlines at connecting airports.
• Through check-in tags: You’ll receive check-in tags for your baggage, allowing for seamless transfer.

Baggage transfer between airlines: Interline agreements ensure that your baggage is transferred between airlines without the need for additional handling. This simplifies the process and reduces the risk of lost or misplaced luggage.

Boarding Passes and Gate Information

Issuance of boarding passes for multiple flights: You’ll receive a single boarding pass for your entire interline journey. This boarding pass will include information for all flights, including gate assignments and departure times.

Gate assignments and announcements: Keep an eye on the departure board or listen to announcements for your gate assignments. Be sure to arrive at the gate well in advance of your flight’s departure time.

By understanding the process of booking and travelling on interline flights, you can enjoy a seamless and hassle-free journey.

Connecting Flights and Layovers

Minimum Connection Times

• Recommended minimum times: Airlines typically recommend minimum connection times between flights to ensure sufficient time for transfers, security checks, and boarding.
• Factors affecting connection times: Factors such as airport size, distance between terminals, and security procedures can influence the recommended connection times.

Airport Facilities and Services

• Amenities: Airports often offer a variety of amenities, including restaurants, cafes, shops, lounges, and Wi-Fi.
• Information desks: Airport information desks can assist with flight updates, baggage claims, and other inquiries.

Delays and Cancellations

Procedures for Delayed or Cancelled Flights

• Notifications: Airlines will typically notify passengers of flight delays or cancellations.
• Rebooking options: If your flight is delayed or cancelled, the airline may offer alternative flights or accommodations.
• Compensation: In some cases, passengers may be eligible for compensation due to flight delays or cancellations.

Rebooking and Refund Options

• Rebooking: Airlines may offer to rebook you on a different flight or provide alternative transportation options.
• Refunds: If your flight is cancelled and you cannot be accommodated on an alternative flight, you may be eligible for a refund.

Lost or Damaged Baggage

Reporting and Claiming Lost or Damaged Baggage

• Report the issue: If your baggage is lost or damaged, report the incident to the airline immediately upon arrival.
• Provide documentation: You may need to provide documentation to support your claim, such as a copy of your boarding pass and a description of the missing or damaged items.
• Filing a claim: The airline will provide you with a claim form to complete.

Interline Baggage Liability

• Liability: If your baggage is lost or damaged during an interline journey, the airline responsible for the segment where the incident occurred is typically liable.
• Filing a claim: Follow the procedures outlined by the responsible airline to file a claim for lost or damaged baggage.

Note: Procedures for flight delays, cancellations, and baggage issues may vary depending on the airline and the specific circumstances. It’s always advisable to check with the airline directly for the most up-to-date information.

Frequent Flyer Programs and Miles

Earning and Redeeming Miles on Multiple Airlines

• Program compatibility: Frequent flyer programs allow you to earn and redeem miles on multiple airlines through alliances or partnerships.
• Mileage accrual: The number of miles earned for each flight depends on the airline, fare class, and distance travelled.
• Redeeming miles: Miles can be redeemed for a variety of rewards, including flights, upgrades, hotel stays, and merchandise.