IATA unveils decade-long plan to transform global baggage handling
By Seun Ibiyemi
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has introduced a 10-year Global Baggage Roadmap designed to overhaul baggage operations across the aviation industry, with the twin goals of improving efficiency and enhancing passenger satisfaction.
The announcement was made in a statement released by the association, which confirmed the roadmap was developed in collaboration with airlines, airports, and other key industry stakeholders.
Monika Mejstrikova, IATA’s Director of Ground Operations, explained that the plan provides a structured approach to tackle long-standing challenges in baggage handling and meet evolving passenger expectations.
“Baggage matters to travellers. When they check a bag, they expect it to arrive on time. If not, they want to know where it is,” Mejstrikova said.
She referenced recent polling data by IATA, which found that 81 per cent of passengers are seeking better tracking of their luggage, 74 per cent want real-time updates, and 67 per cent are in favour of using electronic bag tags.
“The Global Baggage Roadmap will bring us closer to delivering the kind of automated, digital services passengers have come to expect in other sectors,” she added.
The roadmap is anchored on three core pillars. The first focuses on Baggage Information Exchange and Data Standardisation, which aims to harmonise how baggage data is communicated between airlines, airports, and other partners.
Mejstrikova said replacing obsolete systems like teletype messaging with more advanced, application programming interface (API)-driven technology would not only reduce errors but also accelerate reconciliation processes, thereby minimising delays.
This modernisation effort could significantly reduce the industry’s reliance on outdated technology, which currently incurs costs of around one billion US dollars annually.
The second pillar, Baggage Tracking and Automation, centres on providing end-to-end visibility for checked luggage. This includes the deployment of GPS tracking, electronic bag tags, and robotics to improve real-time monitoring and make the baggage experience more seamless for passengers.
The third component aims to refine baggage claim procedures, making it easier and faster for passengers to resolve lost or delayed baggage claims while reducing opportunities for fraud.
Mejstrikova described the roadmap as a consolidation of earlier efforts, presented within a comprehensive framework to guide the industry over the next decade.
“With commitment from all involved, we can implement digital and automated baggage services that match the innovations seen in other industries,” she stated.
The initiative is closely aligned with IATA’s broader objectives to modernise ground operations, enhance safety standards, and improve overall passenger experience.
At the IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC) held this week in Nairobi, Kenya, the association also identified four key priorities for ground handling: embedding safety into daily operations, standardising global procedures, advancing baggage processes, and promoting a sustainable and inclusive future.
Mejstrikova reiterated IATA’s commitment to these goals, noting that industry-wide collaboration will be essential to realising the vision outlined in the Global Baggage Roadmap.
