A: After bags leave the baggage handling system (BHS) they are manually loaded into containers or carts before being transported to the aircraft and moved into the hold. This a labour-intensive part of the process and has been unchanged for several decades.
A: It’s important to think about the flow of baggage – this needs to be predictable, continuous and controllable. That means using a process called “batch building”, through which bags are grouped and released for loading as and when required. A bag store is a vital component, because batches of bags must be held and then sequenced for release at the right time.
However, batch building is just one possible starting point. Airports can also take incremental steps – for example, introducing robotic loading cells into existing halls or improving planning through high-level control software. This allows airports to begin automating the last mile even without a full process redesign.
A: Batch building is the foundation for efficient automation. It allows airports to save space through the use of make-up positions and enables handlers to manage more flights. In addition, the predictability of the process also makes it easier to plan the use of resources. By structuring bags into coordinated batches and releasing them at the optimal moment, airports can reduce peaks, shorten make‑up windows and create a stable, continuous flow. This controlled flow is a key enabler for efficient automation, while already improving performance in partially manual or semi‑automated environments.
A: Advanced robotic solutions can automatically load bags into containers. These have the ability to quickly and accurately handle a wide range of items, thanks partly to improvements in vision systems and gripper designs. The robots can be set up either as a batch loading cell (for early bags) or an in-time loading cell (for luggage that arrives too late for batching or for a process without batching). As an intermediate step towards fully automated robotic loading, airports can also choose to implement semi-automated loading devices. When combined with a batching process, this already enables a more automated, predictable baggage flow.
Automated container handling can be achieved using container conveyors or autonomous vehicles (AVs), with AVs offering a flexible and scalable approach that supports phased implementation. Depending on the airport’s strategy, the same type of AV can be used indoors and outdoors. To make optimal use of limited space inside the baggage hall, AVs with lifting capability can store containers at height and distribute them across the available floor area.
Another important puzzle piece towards full automation of the handler processes is a standardised Airport Load Device that can be used in tandem with robotic loading and automated container management. This standardised format allows loose‑loaded bags to be handled in the same way as ULDs, enabling airports to make better use of their existing assets.
More familiar technologies also play a part, including the above-mentioned bag store, as well as logistics control software that coordinates container movements, storage and routing across the end-to-end process, as well as the tracking of bags throughout their journey.
A: Yes. Many airports can start with incremental improvements, such as adding robotic in‑time loading cells or introducing manual or semi‑automated batch building using an existing bag store. These upgrades typically fit within current footprints and working practices. Over time, airports can scale toward higher levels of automation as infrastructure and operations evolve.
A: There are many potential benefits across several areas, including:
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