This Airline Is Introducing Digital Luggage Tags to Expedite Check-In

Amid travel disruptions caused by staffing shortages and delayed baggage, one U.S.-based airline aims to alleviate some of these issues with a new technological solution.

This week, Alaska Airlines revealed its plans to implement electronic luggage tags that will replace traditional paper tags typically printed at the check-in counter.

When customers check in via Alaska’s mobile app up to 24 hours prior to their flight, they can also synchronize the luggage tag. The information normally found on a printed tag (barcode, flight details, and customer name) will be displayed on a screen akin to a Kindle, using Bluetooth technology. This process will effectively finalize check-in before they arrive at the airport; all they need to do is drop off their bag for scanning.

“Our electronic luggage tags will not only enable guests to swiftly drop off their bags at the airport, but they will also allow our staff to provide more personalized assistance to those who need it, thereby reducing lines in our lobbies,” stated Charu Jain, senior vice president of merchandising and innovation at Alaska Airlines. The airline anticipates that the tags will cut the time required to drop off checked luggage by nearly 40 percent due to shorter wait times in line.

The program is set to launch in late 2022, according to the airline, starting with 2,500 members of Alaska Airlines’ frequent flyer program who will be invited to test the new service. Mileage Plan members (Alaska’s loyalty program) will have the opportunity to purchase the devices in early 2023, as stated by the airline.

Alaska Airlines is the first U.S.-based carrier to implement these devices created by the Dutch company Bagtag. Other airlines utilizing Bagtag technology include Air Dolomiti, Austrian, China Southern, KLM, Lufthansa, and Swiss.

This isn't Alaska's first foray into innovation this year. In March, the airline launched a self-bag drop system at San Jose International Airport. Additionally, in February, it introduced an annual subscription service called Flight Pass, allowing members to take up to 24 round-trip flights a year between select West Coast destinations (mainly within California, but also including Reno, Phoenix, and Las Vegas) for a flat monthly fee.