Lost Luggage Could Be a Thing of the Past by 2018

IATA plan sets course for new universal luggage tracking systems.

If your luggage was lost by an airline this year, take solace in the fact that it could be the last time it happens. With one year left in the plan, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) is rolling out more information about the universal luggage tracking plan, known as IATA Resolution 753.

The resolution was developed by a joint committee formed by IATA and Airlines for America (A4A). It was presented and passed during IATA’s June meeting in Amsterdam, laying the foundation for a major overhaul in passenger luggage processes.

Under the plan, airlines, airports and data companies would work together to ensure luggage gets aboard aircraft and forwarded to its final destination. Mandatory tracking via barcode scanning would occur during check-in, loading, transfers and arrival, ensuring that all stakeholders are kept aware of where a bag is.

Moreover, a single protocol allows airlines to reduce mishandling through constant assurance of where luggage sits. Under Resolution 753, both carriers and airports could immediately determine custody of checked luggage, reduce baggage theft or fraud by continuing the journey and reduce passenger frustration through a more accurate international tracking system.

“Baggage tracking is a key way that our industry can continue to drive down costs and improve service at a fundamental level,” the IATA wrote in a planning guide for airlines and airports. “It is also central to having a capability where airlines can obtain the information needed for passengers when their bags are mishandled regardless of which carriers were involved in the carriage of the bag.”

The plan calls for airlines to install a modern air tracking system by June 2018. Certification on the process and procedures is available in one-year terms, but carriers are not required to obtain the certificate.

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