The new tool relies on artificial intelligence for situational analysis
Japan Airlines Co Ltd (JAL) and the NEC Corporation (NEC) recently conducted a joint trial of the upcoming NEC Baggage Counting Solution.
This new baggage management system uses artificial intelligence (AI) to automatically analyse the quantity and types of carry-on baggage at boarding gates.
Conducted from April to September 2024 at Boarding Gate 13 in Terminal 1 of Tokyo International Airport (Haneda), the trial involved evaluating the solution’s analysis accuracy (detection and classification accuracy) and its alert timing for exceeding overhead storage limits to determine its effectiveness.
Considered the first of its kind in the world, this baggage counting solution allows measures to be taken for carry-on baggage, which is one of the causes of flight delays, aiming to improve on-time performance and ensure smooth boarding.
Based on the results of this trial, JAL is exploring methods for implementing the solution in the future.
What prompted the development?
Excess cabin baggage can lead to congestion in the aisles as passengers spend extra time storing their items in the overhead bins.
It may also result in baggage being transferred to the cargo compartment after boarding has commenced, thereby increasing boarding time and potentially causing flight delays.
Throughout the trial, the solution in development enabled the collection and analysis of data on baggage amounts and alert frequency.
This data can be used to develop concrete measures to prevent departure delays due to baggage storage and the reloading of baggage in the cargo compartment.
Going forward, JAL will continue utilizing digital technology to ensure smoother boarding, improve punctuality, and optimize the overall customer experience.