As the global aviation and travel industry grows and passenger expectations grow with it, it is more important than ever that the future of baggage handling is efficient, accurate, and sustainable. However, the limitations of existing infrastructure can make it hard to optimise operations.
Large organisations might be able to remodel or rebuild their facilities to fully automate, but that is not possible for everyone. Luckily, there are technologies that can transform smaller, more agile facilities’ baggage systems to provide more reliable experiences for passengers and airport employees, such as vacuum lifting technology.
Emerging technologies shaping the industry
More passenger traffic and a higher demand for better service require more efficient baggage handling systems. One significant trend is utilising automation and robotics in airport operations. Automation can handle large volumes of baggage with greater precision, reduce human error, and speed up the check-in to baggage retrieval process.
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are playing a vital role. They can help airports predict baggage flow patterns, optimise resources, and improve system performance. They can even anticipate and mitigate issues like congestion, misrouted bags, or breakdowns in the baggage handling system.
Some examples of robotic baggage handling systems:
- Automated guided vehicles (AGVs)- they use sensors and navigation systems to transport baggage throughout a terminal with minimal human interaction. With the use of AGVs, it lowers the risk of mishandling bags, has faster turnaround times, and reduces operational costs. It is important to note that a person is still required to load and unload the vehicle, or a semi-automated lifting solution could be utilised to help at this part of the process.
- Radio-frequency identification (RFID)- they enable real-time tracking of bags throughout their entire journey, check-in to final destination. This digitalisation reduces the risk of lost or delayed luggage and sets a new standard for transparency and reliability in baggage handling.
- Internet of things integration (IoT)- this connects all elements of the baggage handling process with a network of smart devices and sensors. Data flows between the systems to coordinate check-in counters, conveyor belts, baggage sorting areas, and airline staff for greater efficiency.
Building a better future: sustainability and efficiency
Sustainability is another critical area for baggage handling. To reduce an airport’s carbon footprint, new systems are being designed with energy efficiency in mind. Electric and battery-powered AGVs can replace older, fuel-intensive equipment. Other options are automated and digital solutions that can streamline processes for less energy consumption, or smart lifting technologies like TAWI vacuum lifting solutions that can make a difference in improving the efficiency of baggage handling processes, especially in smaller, more agile businesses.
Don’t get left behind: lifting solutions you can implement today
With new technology evolving for baggage handling to make it faster and safer, manual lifting baggage is no longer practical or competitive. Airports need a trusted partner to guide them to lifting solutions that address their needs and support optimised, efficient operational processes.
TAWI has extensive experience in the commercial and cargo aviation industry and maritime cruise industry. With over 800 units across 60 airports and cruise ports installed around the world, TAWI is here to help you enhance your baggage handling operations.