Heathrow set for RFID baggage pilot

Holidaymakers flying from Heathrow Airport will soon see their luggage electronically tagged as part of a new trial.

Airport operator BAA will begin the trial of radio frequency identification (RFID) tagging at the hub later this year, a move that could see fewer bags being lost, as well as improved airline efficiency.

The scheme will see computer chips added to bag labels containing information such as the traveller's name and destination, with baggage handlers using sensors to detect such details when faced with a large amount of luggage to sort.

"We are always looking for new ways to improve the customer experience at our airport and luggage is one of the areas we are looking at," a spokesperson for BAA told the Guardian.

The last few days have seen reports of a large backlog of baggage at Heathrow emerge in the wake of the recent attempted terror attacks at Glasgow Airport and in London.

British Airways customers have been advised to check the airline's website, which can be used to track the whereabouts of their luggage.

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