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RFID-based systems, because they use radio frequency waves and do not require a line-of-sight read, are able to read bag tags from virtually any vantage point, even those lying underneath a bag. As such, RFID-based systems avoid the potential for lost luggage that can occur with bar code-based systems, ultimately increasing passenger satisfaction.

In airports with significant passenger volumes, such as Las Vegas' McCarran International (LAS) which moves 65,000 bags a day, RFID is an increasingly compelling technology. McCarran is the first airport in the world to use an ultra-high frequency (UHF) RFID system for the identification, tracking and tracing of all outbound baggage. UHF RFID is considered the leading edge in secure radio frequency systems.

The Importance of Integration

While RFID is a true innovation, its application is amplified when used as part of an integrated baggage handling system. RFID's full potential can only be realized in systems with complete end-to-end integration of airline and airport systems information.

Complete integration in a baggage handling project takes an airport's disparate systems, such as flight scheduling and passenger information systems, and neatly joins them to one another, yielding a system that not only sorts and conveys baggage, but also provides tracking, tracing and detailed system performance information. This information is invaluable in helping airport crews correctly route passenger baggage and in ensuring maximum uptime for baggage handling equipment. Integrating technologies so that baggage handling operating systems match existing airport infrastructure also improves the speed with which a system can be installed and the ease of maintenance and repairs.

Tote-based baggage handling systems like the FKI Logistex CrisBag™ offer an integrated solution that puts every piece of baggage in a dedicated RFID-coded tote. In a CrisBag™ system, the baggage travels in the tote until it is loaded on the plane. CrisBag™ can also be used in an early bag storage system that stores and retrieves baggage according to flight schedules.

Checking In

At check-in, key advances in baggage handling include weighing and conveying systems that feature ergonomic designs for the convenience of ticket counter personnel and passengers. These systems streamline the check-in process, minimize passenger wait times and improve check-in counter efficiency, speed and accuracy.

Adding RFID baggage tags or RFID tag printers to the check-in process takes conventional bar code systems one step further. Making systems RFID-enabled starting at the baggage entry point provides near-100 percent sort-track-and-trace capability. Advanced check-in counter systems also feature the automatic association of weight and baggage tag information, including RFID data.