Is Disney trying to restore the bubble and bring back an old favorite perk at Walt Disney World? According to Blog Mickey, Disney is testing a very limited return of the airline check-in service at Disney’s Pop Century Resort. The initial test is only available at Pop Century and is only for guests flying Southwest Airlines.
Here’s what we know:
- Initially only at Disney’s Pop Century Resort
- Will be rolled out to other Value resorts if testing goes well
- Currently only for Southwest Airlines flights
If you’re unfamiliar, the airline check-in service was available at all Walt Disney World resorts pre-COVID. The perk allowed guests to check their bags at their hotel and the bags would automatically be at baggage claim at their destination airport. It was a perfect complement to the Disney Magical Express shuttle that would take guests between the airport and their resort at no charge.
Recently, several Disney executives talked about the importance of the ‘Disney Bubble’ for guests staying at Walt Disney World. The idea is that guests never have to leave Disney property during their vacation. The irony is that Disney themselves have made several decisions that eroded that bubble (if not popped it) over the years. They killed off airline check-in, the Magical Express, free MagicBands, and many other perks that made staying at a Disney resort feel extra special.
The timing of this test doesn’t feel coincidental. Universal’s Epic Universe opens in May. Disney has said they’re not worried, but we don’t buy those comments. Epic Universe opening combined with a shaky economy may force Disney to actually spend some money and bring back resort perks guests have been missing.
