Travellers can expect less lost bags and more accurate luggage tracking as Melbourne Airport introduces a new international baggage handling system.
Expected to launch in March, Melbourne Airport said the new system will have the ability to process more than 4000 bags an hour compared to the current 1800.
System testing is now underway on the new hi-tech baggage system by German logistics manufacturer Beumer Group that will double the capacity of the existing baggage system and provide airlines with real-time tracking of bags from the moment they are checked-in.
The $500 million project has required the installation of a network of baggage lines stretching more than 3.6 kilometres – the same length as Melbourne Airport’s longest runway.
Bags will be carried on totes and electronically sorted into a new early bag store, capable of holding 1400 bags at any one time, before being automatically dispatched in flight order to reduce the number of lost bags and improve efficiency.
According to Melbourne Airport, the project will help support record international passenger numbers.
It comes as the airport records its busiest October ever for international journeys with a total of 1,032,448 travellers for the month, up from October 2024’s 974,713 international travelers.
Melbourne Airport chief of aviation Jim Parashos said the system would help underpin future growth for international airlines.
“This system will more than double our baggage handling capacity when it comes online in March, giving us the infrastructure we need to support future international growth,” Mr Parashos said.
“Our international passenger numbers are at record levels and with three new airlines touching down next month it’s shaping up as a really testing summer for our old baggage infrastructure.
“The new system will mean fewer lost bags, with airlines able to track every bag in real-time from check-in to the aircraft, giving peace of mind to passengers while supporting on time performance.
“Having an automated bag store will allow us to let passengers check-in much earlier for their flights and in the future will enable true anytime check-in, which is exciting for both airlines and travellers.”
