A good working baggage handling system is essential for the functioning of modern airports. This course builds on the general knowledge of aviation gained in first year and explores the design, technology and operations of baggage handling systems at airports.

The course consists of three phases. The first phase introduces the baggage handling process and its operational aspects, in particular, the interactions between the different stages of the process. The second phase focuses on the latest developments in baggage handling systems technology and the changes made to the baggage handling process, such as the application of RFID and biometric technology. The last phase deals with design processes and system analyses. The Delft systems approach and design methods will be introduced to students, enabling them to analyse the baggage handling process and to conceptually design a baggage handling system.

Throughout the course, all aspects of baggage handling systems will be analysed from different perspectives: the designer of the overall system, the component supplier, the airport, the airline, customs and the passengers. The course concludes with two assignments that allow students to put the theory in practice.