Melbourne Airport to invest AUD1bn over the next five years in technology enhancement

Australia's Melbourne Tullamarine Airport stated (11-Jun-2013) it is introducing SITA's AirportConnect Open, supporting common use self-service (CUSS) kiosks along with self-service bag-tagging and automated self-bag drop units. Melbourne Airport CEO, Chris Woodruff said: "Over the next five years, we will invest more than AUD1 billion (USD943.8 million) in our facilities to support passenger growth, and technology enhancements are a critical part of this investment. We are really pleased to be introducing international self-service bag drop to provide our passengers efficient end-to-end self-service. SITA's technology will help us maximise our facilities, while also improving the overall passenger experience." The roll out of these new services started with 14 CUSS kiosks going live in May-2013. Air New Zealand is the first airline to provide international self-service check-in and soon, bag-tagging via these kiosks. Later this year, in collaboration with baggage handling system specialist, BCS Group, the airport will introduce six new automated self-service bag drop units. The bag drop units will automatically scan the bag tag, reconcile the boarding pass, and weigh and measure the bag before dispatching it for the flight - all without the need for manual assistance. [more - original PR]