UK/MALTA. ECR Retail Systems (ECR) has won a contract from retail logistics specialist Versilia Solutions to provide an electronic point of sale system for Air Malta’s inflight requirements.
The new purpose-designed ECR technology will allow the Malta national flag carrier’s passengers the option of paying for food & beverage and other items by debit card for the first time.
Under the new contract Air Malta will run 30 ECRGo2 handheld terminals, using ECR’s AirPos software, across its fleet of A319/320 aircraft.
The lightweight contactless payment device features a five-inch touchscreen with the functionality of a tablet and comes with an onboard silent thermal printer, Bluetooth, 4G and Wi-Fi connectivity and a 2D scanner. It accepts all types of card and mobile wallet payment including ApplePay and Google Wallet, subject to online connectivity.
ECR Retail Systems CEO Simon Pont said: “The ECR proposition is purpose-designed in terms of both hardware and software. Our all-in-one device is more reliable than other options on the market, which are challenged by Bluetooth connectivity, pairing issues and charging problems, and can render devices unusable inflight.
“Our geographical proximity to Malta, and the fact that our technology is proven in helping airlines to generate ancillary revenues, were factors in Versilia securing this partnership with Air Malta.”
Commenting on the new partnership, Air Malta Chief Commercial Officer Paul Sies said: “Feedback from our passengers has shown that they wanted an even better quality and wider selection of inflight catering. Working with Versilia Solutions and ECR has allowed us to deliver it quickly and efficiently.”
Air Malta is currently undergoing a period of growth, with 21 new destinations added to its roster in the last 12 months. In July this year it introduced an improved inflight catering service, giving its economy passengers a choice of more than 70 food and drink items for purchase onboard.
