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Robotics & Market Insights
Enhancing efficiency in the airport baggage hall
12 July 2024
Learn how airports are using advanced robotics to handle the summer travel rush, bringing efficiency, accuracy, cost savings, and enhanced safety.
As the summer break brings an influx of travelers, airports worldwide are facing the challenge of efficiently managing the massive surge in luggage. To address this, many airports are turning to automation and robotics.
This article explores the various types of automation used in airport baggage handling, the benefits and limitations of these technologies, and the market size.
Types of automation for managing luggage
Airports are increasingly using sophisticated automation systems to streamline the baggage handling process. Here are some key types of automation employed:
Automated conveyor systems
These systems move luggage from check-in counters to sorting areas and finally to the aircraft. They are equipped with sensors and scanners to track bags in real time, ensuring that each piece of luggage is routed correctly.
Baggage handling robots
Robots are used to transport luggage within the baggage hall. These robots can pick up, move, and place luggage on conveyor belts or directly into the cargo hold of an aircraft. They are designed to handle various sizes and weights of bags with precision.
Automated tag readers
These systems use RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags attached to luggage. Automated readers scan these tags to keep track of each bag's location throughout the handling process, reducing the risk of lost or misplaced luggage.
Robotic sorters
These robots sort luggage based on destination and priority. They use advanced algorithms to ensure that bags are grouped correctly and loaded efficiently onto the right flights.
Automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS)
These systems store luggage temporarily if there are delays or if bags need to be transferred to another flight. ASRS can quickly retrieve specific bags when needed, speeding up the process of handling delayed or transferred luggage.
Automated baggage sorting at an airport
Benefits and limitations of automation
Benefits
Automated systems can handle large volumes of luggage quickly and accurately, significantly reducing the time it takes to process and sort bags. This is especially crucial during peak travel seasons when airports are at their busiest.
Lost luggage is a nightmare for many travelers. With precise tracking and sorting capabilities, automated systems minimize the risk of lost or misplaced luggage, enhancing the overall passenger experience.
Air travel is a notoriously low-margin business. Over time, automation can reduce labor costs by taking over repetitive tasks that would otherwise require a large workforce. This allows human staff to focus on more complex and customer-oriented roles.
Finally, automation reduces the physical strain on workers who would otherwise have to lift and move heavy bags, leading to a safer working environment.
Limitations
The cost of installing and maintaining automated systems can be substantial, which may be a barrier for smaller airports or those with limited budgets.
Automated systems can experience technical glitches or failures, which can disrupt the baggage handling process and cause delays. Regular maintenance and quick troubleshooting are essential to mitigate these risks.
Staff need to be trained to work with new automated systems, which can take time and resources. During the initial adaptation period, there may be a temporary decrease in efficiency.
Over-reliance on automation can be risky if systems fail or experience downtime. Backup plans and manual processes must be in place to handle such situations.
Market size
The market for airport baggage handling systems is growing rapidly. In 2023, the global market was valued at USD 13.8 billion and it is projected to reach USD 31.7 billion by 2032, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.52% during the forecast period (2024-2032). This growth is driven by increasing passenger traffic, the need for efficient luggage management, and advancements in automation technology.
Baggage hall control room at Dubai International Airport - source: dnata handles over 82 million bags through Dubai International airport (DXB) in 2022
Did you know…
Did you know that one of the world's largest automated baggage handling systems is located at the Dubai International Airport? This state-of-the-art system spans over 140 kilometers of conveyor belts and handles over 15,000 bags per hour. It is equipped with advanced sensors and robotic sorters that ensure each bag reaches its destination on time, even during the busiest travel seasons.
This impressive feat of engineering highlights how airports leverage automation to handle luggage, making the travel experience smoother and more efficient for passengers.
What’s next?
You may be ready to take the next step toward automating your baggage line, but where do you start?
The HowToRobot platform connects buyers of automation with a variety of suppliers in a streamlined, easy-to-use environment.
Post your project on HowToRobot today for free, and begin receiving offers from vetted, relevant automation vendors from our supplier network.
