Over the last few years, we have witnessed an increase in pilots of remote baggage drop off points. Collaborations between large scale events and airports, even trials through car rental providers, have become more commonplace.
However, it has been throughout the COVID-19 pandemic where we have seen the unprecedented acceleration of digitization occur—the focus to minimize contact points throughout the passenger journey.
Throughout 2021, Daifuku has evolved their Baggage Reconciliation System (BRS), Airflow, to not only work within the airport environment – but off-airport.
Designed to isolate inbound passenger baggage – it has opened a significant opportunity for airlines looking to offer a hassle-free, enhanced travel experience.
The IATA 753 compliant app tracks checked baggage to an alternate sortation facility to be then onforwarded offsite. Baggage can be traced and monitored in real-time as they are delivered to multiple offsite locations across a series of inbound carriers.
The new Airflow BRS module enables users to scan and register bags at predetermined points throughout delivery. What this ensures is the reliability of the process, with additional scanning points added to record the presence of each bag along its journey from arrival at reclaim to transportation vehicle on to its final destination.
All data communicated throughout this process is transmitted via a wireless cell phone network and secured connection. This connection enables Airflow BRS to be used offsite at any location with intermittent cell phone coverage.
Airflow BRS is an Android app that can run on traditional ruggedized handhelds or any Smartphone device, making it simple and economical to scale.
Initial results have proven successful, with precise tracing and the ability to easily verify that all bags have been accurately delivered to the passenger’s individual drop off location.
“What has been highly encouraging from the rollout is how much closer we are to achieving standardisation for introducing bag tracking for contactless pickup and delivery of baggage for all domestic and international passengers on a large scale. The results have shown us how this can be achieved; and the significant benefits that can be delivered to passengers as part of their travel experience,” stated Niall Teh, Senior Software Product Manager – Daifuku Oceania.
The most recent passenger survey data indicates that the most significant opportunity to improve satisfaction is baggage handling, specifically baggage collection and the adoption of technology.
Understanding that technology will be the key enabler to delivering a reliable flow and delivery of baggage, Airflow is bringing us one step closer to realising a touchless, hassle-free and reliable baggage journey.
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