The global smart baggage handling solutions market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by the increasing demand for efficient baggage operations and heightened security concerns. This market is projected to grow by USD 5.04 billion from 2024 to 2028, driven by technologies like RFID, AI, and IoT. Despite challenges associated with high implementation costs and system integration, the market is poised for significant growth, making travel more efficient and convenient for passengers.
India’s innovative facial recognition technology, Digi Yatra, is poised to expand to international passengers, aiming to enhance travel efficiency and convenience. This move is part of a broader trend towards digitization in Indian airports, including the launch of the Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP). These initiatives demonstrate India’s commitment to improving airport operations and positioning itself as a leader in travel technology.
Miami International Airport (MIA) has become the first airport in the United States to introduce self-driving wheelchairs for passengers with limited mobility. These autonomous power chairs, developed by WHILL, Inc., are being used by Envoy Air to assist American Airlines passengers. The initiative aims to enhance accessibility and improve the overall customer experience.
Delhi Airport has introduced the first Self Service Bag Drop ‘Quick Drop’ Solution in India, a groundbreaking innovation that streamlines the baggage drop process and reduces waiting times for passengers. This technology, previously only available in Toronto, Canada, allows travelers to drop their bags in just 30 seconds, eliminating the need for boarding pass or biometric verification.
Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) has become the first in India to introduce a Quick Drop Solution for self-service baggage drop, aiming to reduce the check-in process from one minute to just 30 seconds. The new mechanism allows passengers to collect and attach luggage tags at kiosks, then drop their bags onto a conveyor belt. The system automatically opens the airline’s application with a single click, streamlining the process and eliminating the need for boarding pass or biometric validation.
Cutting-edge technologies and evolving travel regulations are transforming the airport experience. Italian airports introduce FaceBoarding, allowing passengers to navigate security checks using facial recognition. Additionally, Heathrow Airport offers TimeSlot, enabling passengers to schedule their security screening in advance, reducing waiting times. Meanwhile, new EU regulations for British travelers include the Entry/Exit Scheme and visa waiver requirements.
