Baggage strain from self-connecting passengers presses airport capacity
Self-connecting and virtually interlined passengers are adding hidden baggage-handling pressure at airports, as they must claim and recheck bags between legs. Technology can mitigate the strain, according to an industry analysis.
Airports are handling more bags than they realise because of self-connecting passengers and virtual interlined itineraries, according to an analysis of baggage-handling challenges. These travellers must claim and recheck their bags between flight legs, moving from airside to landside and adding check-in costs. Self-connecting travel is common on domestic routes, and its growing popularity is putting pressure on baggage systems.
Baggage handling involves multiple carriers, agents, ground handlers, contractors, and terminal zones. Traditional interline also creates complexity across carriers, system providers, and handling teams. Infrastructure varies, and chains of custody become ambiguous when data is shared inefficiently. The overall volume of connected bags continues to grow.
When breakdowns occur, airports face reputational and financial costs. The analysis suggests that technology can mitigate this pressure and improve passenger experiences.
Sources
- airportindustry-news.comThe Unseen Capacity Challenges Created by Baggage