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INDUSTRY STRIVES TO CURB BAGGAGE MISHANDLING: IATA REPORT

New Survey Unveils Progress

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has unveiled a comprehensive global progress report on the implementation of baggage tracking, shedding light on the efforts to mitigate baggage mishandling incidents.

 

Focused on IATA Resolution 753, which mandates baggage tracking at various stages of the journey, the survey encompasses insights from 155 airlines and 94 airports worldwide, revealing significant findings:


  • Airlines’ Implementation Status: The survey indicates that 44% of airlines have already fully implemented Resolution 753, with an additional 41% in various stages of progress.
  • Regional Disparities: Adoption rates vary regionally, with China and North Asia leading at 88%, followed by the Americas (60%), Europe and Asia-Pacific (40%), and Africa (27%).
  • Airport Capabilities: Approximately 75% of airports surveyed possess the requisite capability for Resolution 753 baggage tracking. Notably, airport preparedness varies by size, with higher percentages observed in mega and major airports.
  • Tracking Technologies: Optical barcode scanning remains the dominant tracking technology, deployed by 73% of surveyed airports. However, RFID technology, known for its efficiency, has seen notable adoption rates, particularly in mega airports (54%).

Monika Mejstrikova, IATA Director Ground Operations, underscored the significance of baggage tracking in enhancing passenger confidence and reducing mishandlings. She highlighted the industry’s commitment to further improvements, citing Resolution 753 as a pivotal step towards achieving these goals.


Accelerating Modern Baggage Messaging

Resolution 753 mandates airlines to exchange baggage tracking messages with interline partners using modern messaging standards. However, the current infrastructure relies on legacy technologies, contributing to higher costs and message quality issues.


To address these challenges, IATA is spearheading the transition to modern baggage messaging based on XML standards. The initiative aims to enhance communication efficiency among airlines, airports, and ground handling staff, ultimately reducing mishandled bags and fostering ongoing innovations in baggage management systems.


Campaign for Implementation

Adopted in June 2018, IATA Resolution 753 has been pivotal in driving industry-wide efforts to improve baggage handling. In 2024, IATA launched a campaign to assist airlines with implementation, emphasising data collection and support initiatives to enhance operational standards across the industry.


As the aviation sector continues to evolve, initiatives like Resolution 753 pave the way for enhanced passenger experiences and operational efficiencies, underscoring the industry’s commitment to excellence.


Background: IATA Resolution 753, adopted in June 2018, serves as a cornerstone for baggage tracking standards. IATA’s campaign in 2024 aims to facilitate airlines’ implementation efforts, reinforcing the organisation’s dedication to advancing industry standards and operational efficiencies.

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