News

Paris airport testing self-service baggage drop-off

November 22, 2011

An automated baggage drop-off is being tested at the Paris-Orly Airport. Designed by the teams of Aeroports de Paris, the self-service system allows passengers to check in their baggage in only 30 seconds, according to a company press release.

"This service, entirely designed by our teams, meets a double challenge: It offers airlines a system that enables smooth flow of the baggage drop-off step and it satisfies our passengers who have been asking to be increasingly self-reliant," François Rubichon, ddputy CEO of Aéroports de Paris, said in the release.

How it works

Passengers first proceed to kiosks to print their boarding pass (if they have not got one already).

Next, passengers go to the automated baggage area, scan their boarding cards and insert baggage into the machine. Name of owner and weight of baggage are verified then transmitted to airline.

Lastly, all passengers receive baggage receipts as soon as they drop off their bags. A machine-integrated secure sliding door guarantees against intrusion of banned items. In 30 seconds, the bag is checked in and is then automatically rerouted to a traditional circuit where it will be inspected and secured before getting to its final destination: the aircraft hold.

If the pilot test goes well, Bernard Cathelain, executive director, chief development officer, development and facilities, expects other European airports to soon implement the system.

Read more about custom kiosks.