NCAA Introduces RFID Tech to Improve Baggage Handling

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has initiated the deployment of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology at Nigerian airports to combat ongoing issues of lost, delayed, damaged, and misrouted baggage. This technology was introduced during a technology modernization briefing for airlines, ground handlers, and aviation stakeholders on Tuesday.

Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, stated that baggage handling is a significant source of passenger complaints, second only to flight delays. The RFID system will enable passengers to monitor their luggage's journey from check-in to aircraft loading and arrival, providing real-time updates through an application.

Achimugu explained that the system would help prevent misrouted bags and improve airlines' responses to missing baggage complaints by providing the last known location of bags. Although the technology is not yet operational, consultations with airlines and stakeholders are ongoing regarding its implementation and integration with existing systems.

Concerns were raised about infrastructure, human error, and costs associated with the new technology.