Beyond the Tarmac
Modernising baggage operations in airports globally have significant benefits across multiple dimensions — operational efficiency, passenger experience, security, and sustainability.
According to a recent IATA poll, some 81% of travellers want better tracking, 74% expect real-time updates on their mobile phones and 67% are willing to switch to electronic bag tags.

"The Global Baggage Roadmap will move us closer to the automated digital baggage services that travellers want,” points out Monika Mejstrikova, IATA’s Director of Ground Operations.

Recently, IATA launched a 10-year Global Baggage Roadmap to modernise baggage operations. Developed with airlines, airports, and industry partners, the roadmap sets a clear path to improve both operational efficiency and traveller satisfaction.

The International Air Transport Association noted that the roadmap has been built around three pillars: Baggage Information Exchange and Data Standardisation, Baggage Tracking and Automation, and Streamlining the baggage claim process, combating fraud, and enhancing the customer experience.

Baggage Information Exchange and Data Standardisation is expected to align how baggage information is shared among airlines, airports, and partners.

For passengers, replacing legacy systems like teletype with modern messaging standards will mean faster baggage reconciliation, fewer delays due to data errors, and more reliable service recovery when issues arise.

Driving transformation towards this new API-driven baggage messaging standards, IATA says, will significantly reduce the airline industry's annual spending of $1bn on teletype messaging.

Baggage Tracking and Automation has been planned to provide visibility throughout the journey. This includes the use of electronic baggage tags, GPS tracking, and robotics that will enable passengers to track their bags in real time and experience smoother transfers and arrivals.

Streamlining the baggage claim process, combating fraud, and enhancing the customer experience will help airlines resolve passenger’s claims faster and have better protections from baggage-related fraud.

“This roadmap will consolidate the progress of previous initiatives to modernise baggage processes and take a holistic view of where we need to be in 10 years. With the buy-in of all stakeholders we are better placed than ever to improve traveller satisfaction by delivering the digital, automated, and customer-focused service that they get in many other sectors,” said Mejstrikova.

The Global Baggage Roadmap aligns with IATA’s broader efforts to modernise ground operations, enhance safety, and improve the passenger experience. IATA said it will work closely with stakeholders to develop implementation guidance, provide training, and monitor progress.

Analysts point out that automation and smart tracking systems such as RFID tags and IoT sensors drastically reduce baggage loss and mishandling.

Streamlined baggage flows support quicker aircraft turnaround, essential for on-time performance and cost savings.

Modern systems are able to handle increased passenger volumes, crucial as global air traffic continues to grow post-pandemic. Passengers can track their luggage in real time via mobile apps, reducing anxiety and improving trust in the airline.

Automation ensures bags reach the claim belt quickly, minimising wait times and frustration at arrivals. Improved systems support smoother baggage handling during layovers or interline transfers, reducing missed connections.

Also, automation reduces reliance on manual handling, which helps mitigate labour shortages and lowers operational costs.

Smart baggage handling systems use data to anticipate and prevent breakdowns, reducing downtime.

Newer systems are designed to be more energy-efficient, using AI to optimise routing and reduce power use. Faster baggage handling contributes to shorter turnaround times, which in turn reduces ground emissions from idling aircraft and support vehicles.

From the standpoint of the industry, airports and airlines gain actionable insights from baggage flow data, helping optimise layouts, staffing, and process improvements.

Modernising baggage operations is not just about moving suitcases faster—it is seen as a strategic upgrade that enhances the entire airport ecosystem, improves profitability, boosts passenger satisfaction, and aligns with global digital and environmental priorities. It is increasingly a competitive differentiator in the aviation industry.