Vanderlande was recently awarded the contract to deliver a state-of-the-art baggage handling system (BHS) to Western Sydney International Airport (WSIA).

Currently under construction within the suburb of Badgery’s Creek, the new Western Sydney hub has been designed to meet Australia’s growing aviation needs and supplement the Kingsford Smith Airport which has reached capacity due to a legislative curfew and flight cap. The greenfield project is being completed in several phases and is expected to enter operational readiness and acceptance trials in late 2024, before opening to passenger and freight services in late 2026. Vanderlande is delivering a range of innovative solutions as part of the BHS package. Its ADAPTO BAGSTORE will be the core of the system, providing flexibility and scalability as well as high storage density and 100% redundancy.

ADAPTO BAGSTORE also gives WSIA the ability to ‘batch build’ baggage ensuring efficient use of resources and to deploy the emerging service of “reclaim on demand” due to its ability to store inbound bags. Vanderlande’s high-speed TUBTRAX individual carrier system (ICS) works in harmony with ADAPTO and allows in-tub screening. In addition, all Vanderlande solutions are integrated with its controls platform, VIBES – a software solution that covers the complete baggage process, and interfaces directly with airport and airline IT systems to provide a holistic view.

Using FLEET Bag Av-technology, speed loaders for efficient ULD loading and a central make-up area for economic use of resources, the Vanderlande system will also include out-of-gauge baggage handling. It will also link to a sub-system in which couriers will be able to drop off bags enabling WSIA to proivde the option of remote check-in and bag drop services. Self-bag drop capability will also be integrated into the system.

Commenting on the opportunity to collaborate with WSIA to help deliver their inspirational vision that is the centrepiece of Sydney’s third Central Business District, Shaun Roper, Vanderlande’s Managing Director Airports said: “We are confident that our partnership approach, strong local team and global network of knowledge coupled with an extensive use of local trades and services will together bring value and benefit to WSIA and the local community. With this, alongside our innovative baggage solutions, Western Sydney Airport can be confident that together we will deliver a world-class experience for every passenger.”

Vanderlande’s Executive VP Airport and Parcel Solutions added, “This is not only about technology, but also understanding how our solutions can make WSIA a great place to work and support the wider Sydney community.”

Header image: On the left Shaun Roper, Managing Director Airports, Vanderlande, and on the right Simon Hickey, CEO Western Sydney Airport

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