Empowering Passengers: Self-Service Bag Tag Solutions

Growing passenger volumes is not a unique challenge; exclusive to a select handful of airports, we are all seeing the numbers rise globally. Over the next two decades, world passenger volumes are expected to increase by 3.8% per year on average, resulting in over 4 billion additional passenger journeys in 2043 compared to 2023. *

Instrumental in terminal planning to maintain the seamless flow of passenger traffic is the increased adoption of self-service solutions – essential in reducing congestion, improving check-in efficiency, and providing travellers with a seamless start to their journey.

In the current era of technical innovation, passengers are seeking further convenience and control over their travel experience. Within the aviation ecosystem, a solution proving as a prompt counter to passenger wait times is the Self Bag Tag Solution, or Tag-UX – allowing passengers to independently tag and manage their luggage at airports—providing more control over the check-in process and enhancing efficiency by reducing queuing times and streamlining operations.

Don’t let their size fool you; these micro units are as compact as they are efficient. Designed to optimise space for increased passenger volumes, they also boast serious versatility – with the ability to be utilised across multiple passenger touchpoints beyond baggage tags, including boarding pass validation checkpoints, lounge entry checkpoints, and passenger gates.

A Shift Toward Passenger Autonomy

The adoption of self-service bag tag systems allows passengers to print their luggage tags at dedicated kiosks, even before arriving at the airport. This development represents a significant shift towards passenger autonomy, reducing the reliance on traditional counter services.

In a recent study, 64% of passengers said that the most important factor they’d like to see improved in the travel process is shorter waiting times at the airport, with a growing preference for technologies that enable a smoother and faster travel experience. Offering the seamless self-guided experience of bag tag systems aligns with the desire for passengers to take control of a critical part of the check-in process: their luggage. Instead of queuing at check-in counters, passengers can swiftly print and attach their bag tags, eliminating potential bottlenecks and pain points. 

Reducing Operational Costs

Beyond the immediate benefits to passengers, self-service bag tag solutions also provide advantages to airlines and airports regarding operational efficiency and cost savings. With fewer staff needed to manage the check-in process, airports can allocate resources more effectively, focusing on other critical areas such as security, customer service, and logistics.

By leveraging data-driven decisions and automated processes, airports can enhance workflow efficiency and productivity – positioning employees at the heart of technological advancement and enabling them to concentrate on uniquely human tasks.

Adapting to the Future of Air Travel

In a bid to reduce physical touchpoints, airports and airlines have invested heavily in solutions that promote contactless interactions, and self-service bag tag systems are part of this trend. As air travel continues to surge, the demand for self-service solutions is expected to grow, not only for the convenience they offer but also for the added health and safety benefits.

For airlines and airports, investing in self-service technologies is a matter of meeting current demands and future-proofing operations in an increasingly digital and customer-centric world. The benefits of these solutions are clear: reduced congestion, lower operational costs, and, most importantly, an empowered and satisfied passenger.

The rise of self-service bag tag solutions represents a significant shift in the way airports and airlines operate, putting greater control in the hands of passengers. These systems are transforming the check-in process, reducing queues, and enhancing passenger satisfaction.

As the aviation industry continues to evolve, self-service solutions will play a central role in shaping the future of air travel, empowering passengers to enjoy a smoother and more autonomous journey.

Learn more about Daifuku’s self-bag tag solutions or for a conversation about the unique requirements of your airport, speak to one of our regional Business Solutions Team members today. 

* IATA Global Outlook for Air Transport June 2024 report