Starting today, Czech Airlines only fly into and out of Terminal 4 at London’s Heathrow Airport. The change is a part of the plan of the SkyTeam Alliance to move all of its members under one roof at Europe’s largest aerodrome. For passengers, many innovations have been prepared in this connection, including exclusive check-in counters, a new SkyTeam Lounge, and self-serve kiosks. Until now, Czech Airlines has been based at Terminal 2.

The present move is based on the long-term strategy of SkyTeam, of which Czech Airlines is a member, to associate its member airlines in joint check-in areas at European airports. “The mutual cooperation of our members has a very positive effect on our passengers. This way, we are able to speed up certain processes, such as transfer or check-in, thereby offering more services and far greater comfort within the single corporate identity of the alliance,” says Ladislav Bedná? Alliance Coordinator at Czech Airlines. The first flight that Czech Airlines handles from Terminal 4 was today’s flight OK653 to Prague at 7:35 a.m. The first arrival of a Czech Airlines aircraft to Terminal 4 is also expected today, at 1:45 p.m.

SkyTeam is the first airline alliance to offer a permanent joint facility within one terminal. “This is the first time ever that member airlines have cooperated from beginning to end in creating a joint facility, at the centre of which is the alliance and its customers,” said Marie-Joseph Male, SkyTeam’s Managing Director.

Passengers at Terminal 4 of London’s Heathrow Airport can now take advantage of the new and modern two-level lounge. It includes a relaxation room with sofas, a separate area for children, a wellness centre, a wine bar and an oxygen bar, and a rich array of international cuisine. “If you visit the lounge, you could win a voucher for two persons for 2 nights in the five-star Savoy Hotel in Prague,” adds Ladislav Bednar.

Source: Transportweekly