IATA launches 10-year global baggage roadmap to improve efficiency, air travel experience

May 14, 2025 in Business, Companies, The Business Interview by Editor

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has launched a 10-year Global Baggage Roadmap aimed at modernizing baggage operations and improving both operational efficiency and traveler satisfaction.

Developed in collaboration with airlines, airports, and other industry partners, the roadmap outlines a long-term strategy to overhaul the way baggage is handled, tracked, and returned, placing greater emphasis on automation and real-time information sharing.

“Baggage is important for travelers. When they check a bag, they expect it to arrive on time. And if it doesn’t, they want to know where it is,” said Monika Mejstrikova, IATA’s Director of Ground Operations. “That is confirmed by recent IATA polling showing 81pc of travelers want better tracking, 74pc expect real-time updates on their mobile phones, and 67pc are willing to switch to electronic bag tags. The Global Baggage Roadmap will move us closer to the automated digital baggage services that travelers want.”

A major objective of the roadmap is to standardize how baggage information is shared across the industry. By replacing legacy systems such as teletype messaging with modern, API-driven communication standards, airlines and airports can dramatically reduce errors and delays while saving up to $1 billion annually.

The plan also envisions greater use of electronic bag tags, GPS tracking, and robotics, giving passengers the ability to track their bags in real time and experience smoother transfers. Further improvements will target fraud prevention and a more seamless baggage claim process, enabling airlines to resolve customer complaints more efficiently.

“This roadmap will consolidate the progress of previous initiatives to modernize baggage processes and take a holistic view of where we need to be in 10 years,” Mejstrikova added. “With the buy-in of all stakeholders we are better placed than ever to improve traveler satisfaction by delivering the digital, automated, and customer-focused service that they get in many other sectors.”

The Global Baggage Roadmap aligns with IATA’s wider strategy to modernize ground operations, enhance safety, and boost the passenger experience. IATA will work closely with stakeholders to provide implementation guidance, training, and progress tracking.