PSS (Passenger Service System)
A Passenger Service System (PSS) is like the central brain of an airline's customer-facing operations. It's the main computer system that handles everything from booking tickets to checking in passengers and managing seat assignments. Think of it as the technology that airline staff use at check-in counters, and what works behind airline websites when customers book flights. Popular PSS providers include Amadeus, Sabre, and SITA. When someone mentions PSS in their resume, they've likely worked with one of these systems either at an airline, travel agency, or company that develops these solutions.
Examples in Resumes
Managed implementation of new PSS system for domestic routes, reducing check-in times by 40%
Trained 200+ ground staff on Passenger Service System operations and troubleshooting
Led migration from legacy system to modern PSS platform across 5 international airports
Typical job title: "PSS Specialists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find PSS Specialists
Aviation Industry Groups
Job Boards
Industry Events
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you manage a PSS system migration for a large airline?
Expected Answer: The answer should cover project planning, risk management, staff training, and how to minimize disruption to daily operations. They should mention experience with parallel running of systems and fallback procedures.
Q: What strategies would you implement to ensure system availability during peak travel seasons?
Expected Answer: Look for answers involving capacity planning, load management, backup procedures, and coordination between different airline departments. They should understand both technical and operational impacts.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you handle common PSS issues during check-in processes?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of troubleshooting common problems like booking synchronization, seat assignment conflicts, and system performance issues. Should mention customer service aspect.
Q: Explain how different airline departments use PSS in their daily operations.
Expected Answer: Should show understanding of how PSS connects check-in, boarding, reservations, and flight operations. Should explain impact on different user groups.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic components of a PSS?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain basic modules like reservations, inventory, and departure control in simple terms. Should understand basic passenger journey touchpoints.
Q: What is the importance of PSS in airline operations?
Expected Answer: Should explain how PSS helps in daily airline operations, from booking to check-in, and why it's crucial for passenger handling.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic PSS system navigation
- Passenger check-in procedures
- Booking management
- Basic troubleshooting
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced system configuration
- Staff training and support
- Integration with other airline systems
- Performance monitoring
Senior (5+ years)
- System implementation management
- Strategic planning and optimization
- Vendor management
- Crisis management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic airline operations
- Lack of experience with major PSS providers (Amadeus, Sabre, SITA)
- No knowledge of airline industry regulations and standards
- Poor customer service skills
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