Changi Airport is Moving to the Second Stage in the Baggage Processing Process
by Gamze ÖZDEMİR
Changi Airport Took the Expected Step
The aviation industry, which was affected by the pandemic crisis in recent years and has recovered steadily, is clearly demonstrating its recovery through the data shared, showing that passenger and cargo transportation rates have increased at a faster pace than expected. Airport and airline businesses aimed to minimize the damage from the crisis with different strategies. Many companies in the sector applied downsizing strategies during this period, reducing their workforce. In the early stages of the sector’s recovery, some companies faced difficulties in filling personnel gaps, while others began integrating technological devices into the operational process to minimize the need for human labor and to implement pandemic precautions. During this period, Changi Airport has led other airports in efficiently managing baggage operations.
Looking at Changi Airport’s adaptation to new technologies during the pandemic, it is clear that efforts were made to mitigate the effects of the crisis. Changi, the largest airport in Singapore and selected as the best airport in the world for the seventh time in 2023, began working on the second phase of baggage loading and unloading processes. With more than 400 baggage vehicles, the airport transitioned to autonomous vehicles to speed up the baggage process, reduce human labor, and ensure the most efficient operation possible to shorten the time aircraft spend on the ground. These driverless vehicles, operating between the aircraft and the baggage loading/unloading area on the airside, are being equipped with new features to enhance their functionality. Additionally, in the first phase, a security personnel is assigned in case of any security issues, but in the second phase, efforts are underway to completely eliminate the need for this personnel by improving the security features of the vehicles.
The next phase of the transition to autonomous vehicles in collaboration with Aurrigo is quite remarkable. In the first phase of the transition to autonomous vehicles, these vehicles, named AutoDolly, were used only for transporting baggage between the aircraft and terminal within the apron, while the baggage loading and unloading were completely carried out by personnel. In addition to this innovative technology, the second phase is expected to introduce robotic arms to fully automate the loading and unloading process. With this innovation, the new autonomous vehicles are set to completely eliminate the need for towable baggage vehicles. By integrating technology into the process, the airport aims to reduce the need for personnel to zero, using robotic arms to handle baggage loading and unloading. The airport is moving forward with confident steps to maximize efficiency through the use of advanced technologies, aiming to ensure and advance sustainable aviation.
The airport, which opened its 4th terminal in September 2022, is expected to open its 5th passenger terminal by 2030. With the new terminal, an increase in passenger capacity is anticipated, making such a step quite logical. The improvement efforts in future airports and passenger experiences brought by advancing technological systems are of great interest. This innovation, aiming to maximize efficiency within the staff-technology relationship, will set an example for other airports. Additionally, by taking this step, Changi Airport is determined to make history as the first airport to implement this innovation in the baggage process. Furthermore, such a move in a highly developed airport, which is already an example in terminal design and facilities, will increase competition and ensure the continuity of developments in the sector.
References
haber.aero/sivil-havacilik/singapur-changi-havalimanina-otonom-bagaj-sistemi/
www.havayolu101.com/
www.visitsingapore.com/travel-guide-tips/travelling-to-singapore/changi-airport-singapore/
www.changiairport.com/corporate/media-centre/changijourneys/the-airport-never-sleeps/auto-dolly-trial.html
Pictures: unsplash.com, changiairport.com, pexels.com
