Long term plans to modernise the existing Leeds Bradford Airport terminal are taking off.
Proposals for a new building have been scrapped after a series of delays and a government call-in, and now attention is turning to the existing offer. To improve passenger experience and speed up check-in processes, the airport is optimising available space by reconfiguring its check-in ‘Hall A’ which currently welcomes all passengers not using resident airline Jet2.
The work, underway now, will see the installation of 14 self-service kiosks and hybrid self-service automated bag drops, as well as four self-service check-in e-gates, all produced by self-service technology experts Elenium. A total of 14 traditional staffed check-in desks will also be installed, and the hall will be extensively refurbished.
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It comes as the region has just been reduced to two airports with the loss of Doncaster Sheffield, leaving only Leeds and Humberside.
Vincent Hodder, chief executive of Leeds Bradford Airport, said: “The upgrading of Hall A will future proof LBA, bringing us in line with the world’s leading airports. It is also an early, yet crucial, component of the long-term modernisation plans for our existing terminal, which will dramatically improve passenger and airline experience. Elenium’s industry-leading technology is a key part of these plans, and we’re looking forward to seeing it being used by our passengers soon.”
It has been over six years since the airport last made an investment in passenger-focussed technology of this scale. Mr Hodder said the update is a significant step towards bringing LBA in line with the UK’s leading airports, at which self-service technology, and processes like biometric identification, are commonly deployed.
Australia-based Elenium creates self-service technology for multiple sectors. Itspecialises in digital identity, privacy, robotics, machine learning and data science, and counts Qantas, Etihad, Qatar and Avalon as clients.
Aaron Hornlimann, chief executive, said “We’re excited to be working with LBA to help it make its passenger experience world class and as seamless as possible. Combining speed and ease of use, our technology facilitates frictionless travel experiences, giving passengers more time to relax, explore and enjoy their journey. Improving infrastructure now, and getting the right technology gives LBA a platform making the airport and airlines ready for the future.”
Reconfiguration work is expected to be complete by Easter 2023. Hall A will remain operational, with the team stating day-to-day operations will not be adversely impacted.
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