Los Angeles Airport Starts to Use Self-Service Baggage Check-In System

With the intention of improving the overall experience for passengers and optimizing operational processes, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has implemented an advanced self-service bag drop check-in system. The airport endeavors to furnish passengers with a streamlined and effective procedure, enabling them to effortlessly check in their baggage. By implementing this cutting-edge technology, LAX will advance substantially in its mission to become a world-class airport. An examination of the intricacies of the recently unveiled self-service system, as detailed in the press release dated February 25, 2020, is warranted.

How the Self-Service LAX baggage drop off System Works:

Presently, LAX baggage drop off is operational in the Tom Bradley International Terminal’s Aisles B and C. Those travelling on particular airlines, including Norwegian, Asiana, Cathay Pacific, and Lufthansa, are permitted to use this system. An increasing number of airlines, including Air France/KLM, ANA, British Airways, Korean Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and EVA, are anticipated to participate in the pilot program.

Face Recognition and Spotting

1) First, a customer walks up to the self services bag drop and the system recognizes their face, takes a picture of them, and sends it to a biometric day of travel gallery, which could be owned by the airline or airport or a third party.

2) Second, the day of trip gallery gives back the name of the passenger. Passenger Name Record (PNR) is sent to the airline at the same time to get the person’s reservation and baggage limit if they are already registered.

3) Different carriers offer optional backup flows. For example, the system can print assigned bag tags at the bag drop, collect payment for over-sized or overweight bags, and/or switch to a 1:1 local ID check against a government ID.

After the steps above are done, the bags will be taken immediately to the sorting area and then onto the plane.

What’s the difference between a one-step and a two-step bag drop?

As the name suggests, a one-step self service bag drop lets people check in for their ticket, say how many bags they are checking, print their bag tags, pay any fees and then drop off their bags all in one easy step. People all over the world find it easy to check in now that the process has been improved. If there is a two-step bag drop, on the other hand, the passenger still checks in at a Customer User Self Service (CUSS) machine but then goes to a different stop to drop off their bags for the transportation system. It is important to note that there are more CUSS machines for entering passengers than places for entering bags.

Assistance and Convenience:

Throughout the pilot phase, Pacific Aviation has contracted personnel available to provide assistance to passengers as they navigate the LAX baggage drop off technology. Guests may gain access to the system by scanning their boarding permits. Passengers with oversized or overweight luggage will be directed by the staff to the counter of their respective airline for further assistance. Furthermore, individuals who have completed their online check-in with an airline that is a participant in the program may be issued a Quick Response (QR) Code, which they can scan at the terminal to expedite their journey.

Monitoring and Evaluation:

During its pilot phase of four to eight months, the self-service bag-drop system will be subject to vigilant oversight by LAWA. Processing times, successful transactions, and technical or user-generated errors will be the primary focuses of the evaluation. The data gathered throughout this time period will be utilized to further refine and enhance the program.

Read more about the Hand luggage Rules at the airports 

The Benefits of LAX Baggage Drop Off

The implementation of LAX baggage drop off system at LAX provides the airport, airlines, and passengers with numerous benefits.

Benefits for Passenger

• Faster and more efficient check-in process
• Less LAX check in time
• Increased convenience and flexibility
• Empowerment and control over luggage handling
• Potential for shorter queues and less interaction with staff
• Streamlined and automated procedures
• Improved overall travel experience

Benefits for Airports

• Cuts down on wait times by working faster
• Better use of room and throughput of capacity
• Increases the time passengers stay and the money they spend as a result
• High-availability cloud technology makes things simpler and lessens the need for IT infrastructure
• Fits in seamlessly with current infrastructure

Benefits for Airlines

• Gives passengers more power over their trip.
• One worker can watch over more than one bag drop.
• Making money by securely handling payments for services like baggage fees and other extras
• A lot of experience integrating airlines makes installation quick and easy.
• Reporting and changes made to the whole network from one place

Tips for Efficiently Using Self-Service Bag Drop Los Angeles

Here are some tips to help you prepare your luggage for using a LAX baggage drop off:

1. Check the airline’s guidelines: Before packing, familiarize yourself with the baggage restrictions and guidelines provided by your airline. Ensure that your luggage complies with size, weight, and content restrictions to avoid any issues during the self-service bag-drop process.

2. Pack efficiently: Optimize space by rolling your clothes instead of folding them. This technique helps minimize wrinkles and allows for better organization within your luggage.

3. Use clear and durable luggage tags: Attach clear and sturdy luggage tags to your bags, ensuring that all relevant information, including your name, contact number, and flight details, are clearly visible. This will help airport staff and the self-service system identify and handle your bags accurately.

4. Print bag tags in advance: If the self-service bag-drop system allows you to print bag tags in advance, take advantage of this feature. Print and attach the tags securely to your luggage before arriving at the airport. This will save you time and make the bag-drop process smoother.

5. Arrive early: Plan to arrive at the airport with enough time before your flight. While the self-service bag-drop system is designed to expedite the process, it’s always a good idea to allow extra time in case of any unforeseen circumstances or questions that may arise.

6. Familiarize yourself with the system: Take some time to understand how the LAX baggage drop off self-service system works. If there are any instructional videos or user guides available on the airline or airport website, review them in advance. This will ensure you are familiar with the process and minimize any confusion or delays during bag drop-off.

7. Secure your belongings: Prioritize the security of your belongings. Use TSA-approved locks or other secure locking mechanisms to protect your luggage. Additionally, consider using packing cubes or separate compartments within your bag to keep items organized and easily accessible.

8. Keep important items with you: It’s advisable to keep valuables, important documents, medications, and any necessary items with you in your carry-on bag. This way, you’ll have them readily available and can avoid potential issues if your checked baggage is delayed or misplaced.

Remember, these tips are general guidelines, and it’s always a good idea to check with your specific airline or consult their website for any additional instructions or requirements related to their self-service bag-drop system.

Conclusion,

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