The airline will email passengers with a link to its WhatsApp account; passengers will then have six to 48 hours before their flight to submit documents for review, if they wish.

Passengers are asked for an image or PDF of their passport, any mandatory health forms and updated Covid-19 test or vaccination certificate.

Submissions are reviewed by the airline, with passengers receiving a confirmation message if their documents are approved.

The system is optional, with passengers still able to have their documents processed at their departure airport or via other methods – such as online.

Latam launched the channel to offer passengers another option, as well as to reduce wait times at airports and avoid boarding denials due to incomplete forms.

Paulo Miranda, vice-president of customers of Latam Airlines Group, said the WhatsApp would add to the various tools the airline made available to passengers.

He added it would reduce pre-flight processing times and gave passengers more time to use the airport. The digital service is free and passengers can submit forms six to 48 hours before their flight.