Vanderlande has signed a contract to implement an innovative new solution for baggage handling at Lelystad Airport (member of the Schiphol Group). The system at the airport will utilise automated guided vehicle technology (AGV), which replaces the need for conveyors and sorting systems. It also includes a new self-bag drop solution, as well as optimising the travel experience for passengers.
The announcement comes at an important time in the history of Lelystad Airport, which is located near Amsterdam. Due to the ongoing expansion of Schiphol Airport, Lelystad is required to undergo a phased upgrade in order to provide additional capacity and enhance its commercial activities, which must be completed by 2019.
The new solution from Vanderlande will provide high levels of flexibility and allow Lelystad to change seamlessly in the future to match its business requirements. Scalability is also possible by implementing additional vehicles. In this way, the system has been designed to grow alongside the airport without impacting on operations or necessitating any immediate building expansion.
In addition, the solution will guarantee shorter project lead times and consume up to 50% less energy compared to traditional baggage handling systems. The design also means that the vehicles can be easily recycled, contributing to a circular economy. Once completed, the project will ensure an industry-leading experience for both passengers and airlines.
"We are delighted to have signed this agreement with our partner Viggo who was rewarded with the contract for completion of the shell-state terminal and the provision for ten years, of all airport related services at Lelystad Airport," says Vanderlande’s CTO Vincent Kwaks. "This is an excellent example of how Vanderlande is able to adapt existing technology to create an entirely new solution. We’re confident that our innovative equipment – combined with intelligent software applications – will provide maximum efficiencies to Lelystad and the wider aviation industry."
On 31 March 2015, Lelystad was given the go-ahead to develop into an airport that could facilitate 45,000 flights per year. This will allow more flexibility for transfer traffic at Schiphol, which is crucial for its ongoing success. It is anticipated that Lelystad will provide an attractive alternative for holiday flights, and provide sufficient space for other aviation activities.
Vanderlande will be presenting its innovation, called FLEET, at the inter airport Europe 2017 exhibition in Munich, Germany from 10-13 October. Visitors to the exhibition, can see a live demonstration at booth 1030 (Hall A5). At booth 286 (Hall A6), the company is also showcasing its latest innovations in automated passenger checkpoint solutions.