March 17-19, 2026
Excel London, UK

Exhibitor News

14 Nov 2025

2025 Insights: The Evolution of Baggage Handling at Airports and Cruise Ports

TAWI AB Hall: N8-N23 Stand: B320
2025 Insights: The Evolution of Baggage Handling at Airports and Cruise Ports
In the rapidly evolving world of air travel, one area that is often overlooked when it comes to improving the efficiency of air travel (or rather the efficient user experience of modern aviation) is the airport baggage handling process.

This also holds true at major cruise ports too. JP Morgan believes that cruise ship passengers are now back above pre-pandemic numbers and they’re forecasted to continue growing. Whether flying or maritime, passenger numbers continue to rise as air travel becomes more accessible and cruises expand their routes.

Airports worldwide are under pressure to streamline operations and meet growing demands. Baggage handling, a critical aspect of passenger satisfaction, plays a key role in maintaining smooth operations. It is not just about ensuring bags get from check-in to the right flight; it’s about minimising delays, preventing loss or damage, and enhancing the overall customer experience.

In 2025, advancements in automation, artificial intelligence, and robotic technologies are shaping the future of the baggage handling process. Systems that were once prone to human error and inefficiency are increasingly becoming digitised and streamlined, enabling faster and more accurate sorting, tracking, and transportation of luggage. However, with this digital shift comes the need for robust, adaptable solutions that can meet the growing complexity of modern airports.

Improving efficiency in this sector is critical. Any delays or mishandling can lead to significant operational disruption and passenger dissatisfaction. Two hugely detrimental factors to the financial health of airlines, airports, cruises and ports alike. Vacuum lifting technology and other smart lifting solutions, have the potential to reduce the physical impact of manual labour, improve accuracy, and increase speed. They are emerging as one of the key solutions to meet these modern challenges.


The true cost of getting baggage handling wrong
Baggage handling is a critical part of airport & port operations, yet it is often overlooked until something
goes wrong. Unfortunately, the repercussions of mishandling this essential function are far-reaching, affecting not only the airport’s operations but also its bottom line. In an environment as fast-paced
and hazardous as an airport, the cost of getting baggage handling wrong can be enormous.

Conclusion
The baggage handling process will be defined by greater levels of semi-automation, robotics, and digitalisation. These advancements promise not only to enhance the efficiency of airports and ports but also to improve passenger satisfaction by minimising errors, reducing wait times, and ensuring that luggage arrives on time and intact. We have to find a future that enables the experts on the ground to work faster and safer, with less damage to luggage and delays in service. With the integration of smart lifting solutions, energy-efficient technologies, and digital tracking systems, the future of baggage handling is set to be faster, safer, and more sustainable than ever before.

To reform these systems, adopting advanced lifting technologies is critical. TAWI smart lifting solutions offer one of the most effective ways to modernise baggage handling processes. By integrating vacuum lifting equipment and automated solutions, airports can reduce manual strain, boost productivity, and significantly improve safety for baggage handlers. These systems ensure that bags and cargo are moved quickly and accurately, minimising human error and reducing operational costs.

As airports and seaports look to the future, efficiency & safety must be prioritised. TAWI’s solutions provide a versatile, cost effective way to meet these demands, offering ergonomic support and advanced technologies that streamline the entire baggage handling process. By investing in such solutions, airports can enhance their reputation, increase customer satisfaction, and stay competitive in an industry that is continuously evolving.

“TAWI´s top priority is to understand our customers’ unique needs and pain points and collaborate closely with them to develop a solution that fully meets their requirements. After the installation of our baggage lifters, we continue to support the customer, ensuring a smooth onboarding process. Our goal is to empower everyone involved in baggage handling to work carefully and efficiently, making the process easier and safer for all.”
- Peter Wood, Global Key Account Manager, Piab Lifting Automation Division (TAWI – a brand by Piab Group)

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