Iata has launched a 10-year Global Baggage Roadmap with the aim of improving baggage operations across the world.
The move comes amid growing passenger demand for real-time tracking and better handling. According to an Iata survey, 81% of travellers want better baggage tracking, 74% expect real-time update on their phones and 67% are willing to switch to electronic bag tags.
With more passengers turning to Apple AirTags and other tracking devices to follow their checked baggage, trends have forced a change in approach. More than a dozen international airlines have started integrating Apple’s AirTag location data into their baggage recovery procedures to aid the tracking of mishandled baggage, as reported by Travel News.
Iata’s new Roadmap aims to unify these efforts and bring global consistency, by focusing on three key areas:
- Data standardisation to improve the exchange of baggage information between airlines, airports, service providers and passengers.
- Automisation and digitisation using electronic baggage tags, GPS tracking, and robotics to enable real-time tracking and smoother transfers and arrivals for passengers.
- Faster claims resolution through improved fraud detection and streamlined baggage claim processes.
