ONE MILLIONTH PASSENGER USES SELF SERVICE BAG DROP AT BHX

Birmingham Airport (BHX) today welcomed the one millionth passenger to use its automated self-service bag drop technology since it was officially launched across the airport in January 2018.

Designed to reduce passenger check in times, the self-service bag drop (SSBD) technology allows passengers to print bag tags and boarding passes and inject their bag into the baggage system using a simple, customer friendly user interface.

According to the airport, the SSBD service has decreased queue times while increasing customer satisfaction and providing an improved customer experience.

It has also allowed staff to support passengers who might need assistance elsewhere as well as reducing the overall check-in time by providing additional points where customers can self-serve.

Chris Wilson, the airport’s head of capacity and performance, said: “We are always looking into ways make our passengers’ journeys as seamless as possible.

“This is something which is not only important from the very moment a passenger enters our terminal doors, but also to the very moment they leave.

“This is especially significant as more than ever, passengers are looking for ways to enable them to control their own travel experience.

“Whether this be through apps where many airlines allow passengers to check in prior to reaching the airport for example, or through using systems like the ePassport gates providing an automated route through the UK Border.”

Anna Rusted, TUI UK’s director of operations, said: “We are very excited that a TUI customer is the one millionth passenger to check-in using the self service bag drop at Birmingham Airport.

“Our bag drops are very popular with our customers who can enjoy the benefits of easy to operate technology allowing them a quick and smooth check-in process.”

The airport has 61 SSBD kiosks available in total, with 52 that allow passengers to print boarding cards and check-in, and nine that also allow them to inject their bag.

Airlines which use the service currently include TUI, Jet2, Aer Lingus, Ryanair, Thomas Cook and Flybe.