Mobile apps as alternative to paper boarding pass

Question

I print my boarding pass in advance before arriving at the airport. They check it during check-in and during boarding. However, I've seen some people using their mobile devices to present the boarding pass instead of a paper copy.

First, is that acceptable in all the airports?

Secondly, which app do they normally use?

Answer 1

This is very airline specific.

• in most cases (of airlines supporting it), you have to use the airline's own app
• some airlines support sending you a mobile-optimised version of your boarding pass by e-mail or MMS
• other airlines will allow adding the boarding pass to the iOS "wallet" (previously known as Passbook), either from their own app, from their mobile website, or from an e-mail or text message. Not sure if there is an Android equivalent.
• if the airline and airport allows it you can scan the paper boarding pass with a special app and make your own mobile boarding pass.

This is indeed not always possible in all airports and/or for all flights. The check-in process should prevent you from choosing mobile boarding pass for those airports that don't support it.