AGV in baggage halls
Brussels Airport
Can AGVs carry the load? Real-world ULD transport in Brussels Pier A
We’re testing how an Automated Guided Vehicle can move ULDs inside Brussels Pier A’s baggage hall— a space not originally designed for autonomous vehicles, but ideal for learning.
Can it work in tight spaces, adapt to messy real-world conditions, and make life easier for handlers? That’s what this proof-of-concept is all about.
Challenge
Baggage transport in the baggage hall still relies heavily on manual driving and handling activities. This creates operational pressure, increases dependency on available staff and can contribute to physically demanding work.
The challenge explored in this proof of concept was whether Autonomous Guided Vehicles (AGVs) could safely and reliably transport Unit Load Devices (ULDs) and baggage containers in an operational baggage environment. This way, AGVs could close the automation loop, ensuring empty containers arrive at load cells and full ones leave on time.
Approach
We tested an AGV solution in a realistic baggage hall environment. One AGV navigated between key operational points, including transfer stations, the load cell area and vertical storage racks designed to optimise space for ULD storage.
In parallel, a newly developed airport dolly and baggage container were tested under live operational conditions in close collaboration with ground handling partners.
Automation is not about replacing people. It is about creating safer, smarter and more resilient baggage operations where people and technology work together - Yorick Buys
Assumptions
The proof of concept explored whether:
• AGVs can safely and reliably transport ULDs and baggage containers in an operational baggage hall environment.
• Automated transport can reduce manual handling activities and physical workload – making them viable for broader baggage logistics
• Vertical storage can help optimise the use of available baggage hall space.
• AGV scan handle common disruptions (e.g. floor reflectivity, obstacles, container variations) and support smarter resource use.
• AGVs can be integrated into existing baggage handling operations and workflows.
Key learnings
Product - Promising tech, not plug-and-play
Most ULD’s were successfully transported in realistic conditions, confirming the potential of autonomous baggage transport. The AGV was also able to detect and recover from errors autonomously.
At the same time, processing issues with older or defomed ULD’s, sensor interference from sunlight highight areas for further development.
People - Involving the airport community works
Handlers recognised the ergonomic benefits of the concept with less bending and reaching required during daily operations.
New skills and practical considerations were highlighted around load unit handling – this will need to be further addressed to maximise operational value.
Process – Integrating into bigger picture
To scale up, the AGV system must plug more seamlessly into the wider baggage handling ecosystem. That means better coordination with planning systems, smoother handovers between automated and manual activities, and increased reliability.
Reducing the need for manual resets and supervision remains an important next step
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Looking ahead
The proof of concept confirmed that AGVs can play a meaningful role in the future of baggage handling. While further development is needed to improve robustness and integration, the direction is clear: autonomous transport has the potential to support safer, smarter and more resilient baggage operations.
The next step is not proving the concept works—but making it robust, integrated and scalable enough for everyday operations.
Yorick Buys
Head of Baggage Brussels Airport
Let's connect
Interested in the lessons learned from this proof of concept?
Get in touch to discuss the findings, challenges and opportunities for AGVs in baggage operations.