RFI technology to help track bags at Heathrow

Heathrow Airport has a terrible reputation, particularly when it comes to lost bags. But the airport is trying to change that with a trial run of a new system of tracking and monitoring luggage which could revolutionize the way people travel.

The British Airports Authority has joined forces with the Dubai-based airline Emirates in order to pilot a £150,000 program for six months based in Heathrow Airport.

The scheme involves the use of radio-frequency identification tags on luggage in order to track the bag as it passes through the system.

According to the BAA, the use of RFI could allow the airport to improve sorting and security practices.

As part of the pilot program, travellers in Dubai are invited to register their mobile phone information with BAA. When they arrive in Heathrow, they are sent a text message indicating where they can pick up their luggage.

Stephen Challis is the head of product development for BAA Heathrow. “We are extremely excited by this project, which will track bags at every stage of their journey,” he said. “(It) could significantly improve the efficiency of Heathrow’s baggage system, delivering an improved service to both passengers and airlines alike.”

“The volume of baggage processed at airports is increasing, with more people around the world flying each year,” said Emirates UK and Ireland vice president Vic Sheppard. “It is important to Emirates that we look at innovation to help give that extra level of reassurance for our customers.”