Disney just might be bringing back one of its most convenient perks, but don’t expect a big announcement or flashy rollout—at least not yet. Resort Airline Check-In, the ultra-handy service that let guests check their bags at their hotel and skip the airport hassle, is being tested again at Walt Disney World. And if you know anything about Disney, you know they love a good “soft launch.”
Shhh… It’s Only at Pop Century (For Now)
Right now, Disney is keeping things low-key with this test, only running the service at Pop Century Resort. But don’t be surprised if it quietly expands to other Value Resorts starting in April. There are no signs, no official mentions—just whispers among guests who have discovered it firsthand.
The revival of Resort Airline Check-In isn’t even directly run by Disney. Instead, it’s being handled by a company called Bag Check, created by Craig Mateer. If that name sounds familiar, it’s because he was behind Bags, Inc., the original operator of Disney’s luggage service back in the day.
Only One Airline in the Game
At the moment, the service is only available for Southwest Airlines passengers. Disney hasn’t made any promises about adding more airlines, but if guests love it (and demand is high), don’t rule it out. After all, Disney never misses an opportunity to capitalize on a fan-favorite.
How It Works—And the Catch
If you’re staying at a participating resort, here’s what you need to know before you start dreaming of a hassle-free airport experience:
- You MUST be flying with Southwest Airlines.
- You MUST have already checked in for your flight and paid any baggage fees.
- Once you check your bag at the resort’s Luggage Assistance desk, say goodbye—it won’t be available again until you land.
Timing is everything:
- Flights before 1 PM? Bags must be checked the night before departure.
- Flights after 1 PM? Bags can be checked that morning, but at least four hours before takeoff.
Wait… It’s Actually Free?!
Yep. Unlike most things at Disney that used to be free but now come with a price tag (cough Genie+ cough), this service is totally complimentary. Shocking, right? We’ll see how long that lasts.
What’s Next? A Full-On Comeback?
Does this mean Disney is finally bringing back more of its beloved perks? Maybe, maybe not. But let’s just say if Resort Airline Check-In makes a full return, it could open the door for other long-lost services—maybe even Magical Express (hey, we can dream, right?).
For now, Disney is playing it cool. But if this test is a hit, don’t be surprised if we see a full-scale comeback sooner rather than later.
Would you use Resort Airline Check-In if it expanded across Disney hotels? Let us know!
