AirPortr and Swissport launch off-airport baggage processing

Baggage management specialist AirPortr has partnered with ground handler Swissport to enable luggage to be processed away from the airport – allowing passengers to travel without their suitcases.

The new, commissionable service enables travellers to pre-book an at-home baggage collection slot ahead of their flight.

A courier will visit to digitally verify ID and travel documents on the doorstep, and the baggage will be sealed for secure delivery to the airport. Passengers will receive live updates and digital airline baggage tags.

The customers can travel bag-free to the airport, switching to public transport if preferred, bypass the check-in and baggage drop at the airport, and proceed to security.

They can also have their bags cleared through customs and delivered to their destination within hours of landing – skipping baggage reclaim altogether.

AirPortr and Swissport said the off-airport processing enables “truly contactless airport journeys underpinned by seamless digital experiences” and improves passenger mobility.

It creates ancillary revenue for distribution partners, who include travel agents, and reduces passenger interactions and queues at airports.

Furthermore, 66% of AirPortr users switch from cars to public transport as a result of travelling bag-free.

Randel Darby, chief executive and founder at AirPortr, said: “With Swissport, we are transforming baggage from a customer and cost pain point into a new revenue stream, increasing handling efficiency and improving passenger experience.

“The first deployment will launch imminently.”

Bruno Stefani, Swissport’s senior vice-president and managing director for Switzerland and France, added: “AirPortr’s platform, as well as our global network and existing airline customer relationships, enable an end-to-end solution and user experience for passengers.”