How Materna IPS and SICK partner to expedite baggage check process with self-bag drop

Many airports in Europe and Asia have implemented fully automated self-bag drop stations as a way to streamline the baggage check-in process. Airports and airline companies in North America have started to implement similar systems. One airline that has embraced this technology is Spirit Airlines.

Spirit Airlines partnered with Materna Intelligent Passenger Solutions (IPS) North America, a US-based, industry-wide leader in automated passenger handling solutions, to introduce self-bag drop technology in two airports in North America. This full-service, self-bag drop solution is powered by SICK sensors to provide passengers with a completely flexible and convenient experience at airline baggage drop zones.

The First Airline in US to Adopt the Technology

Materna powers these operations at major international airports, such as Toronto (YYZ), New York City (LGA), Chicago, (ORD), Denver (DEN), Minneapolis−Saint Paul (MSP), London (LGW), and many more across Europe and Asia. Several U.S. airports utilize self-bag drop operations purchased and managed by the airport, but Spirit is the first carrier in the nation to pursue the technology as an airline-level initiative.

The goal for a Materna and SICK sensor-based system is to provide an enhanced travel experience for passengers. These systems provide airports and airlines the most flexibility and cost efficiency. Check out this quick video of a system in action to learn more about the capabilities!

In our case study, we demonstrate how this new system for checked luggage employs a two-step approach to streamline the baggage drop-off process. We go in-depth on the specific SICK technology used to enable the self-bag drop system to work efficiently: laser barcode scanners and LiDAR technology.

Download the case study today to learn more about self-bag drop systems for airports and airlines.