Crisplant, part of BEUMER Group and a leading global supplier of automated baggage handling systems, has successfully completed the first phase of contract for the design, manufacture and integration of energy-efficient, high-speed automated baggage handling systems for the new International and Domestic terminals at El Dorado International Airport, Bogotá, Colombia.

To complete the first phase of the contract, Crisplant installed the baggage handling system in the new International Terminal building. Based on two fully-automatic LS-4000E sorters, to provide the highest energy efficiency, the system was installed during the construction of the new International Terminal building and often under extreme weather conditions. Despite these challenges, Crisplant completed the installation in a record time-frame of 22 months.

In addition to the energy-efficient LS-4000E sorters, the system also included the first installation of the new Crisplant CrisBelt baggage conveyor system. This features a minimal footprint as well as quiet operation, and a reduced spares inventory to minimise operational expenditure (OPEX).

Intensive system simulations of the complete installation meant that the baggage handling system was able to deliver stable and flawless service from the first day of operation. As part of a four-year Residential Service contract, a team of around 30 Crisplant employees will provide 24/7 on-site maintenance to ensure the continued efficiency of the baggage handling system.

The first-phase International Terminal was officially inaugurated on 19 October 2012. For the second phase of the project, Crisplant will design, build and install the baggage handling system in the new domestic terminal which is scheduled for completion in 2013.

El Dorado is the third largest airport in Latin America and the second largest in South America.The expansion and modernisation of the airport allow operator, OPAIN, to provide the capacity to handle 22 million passengers in 2012, and also enable easy expansion for future growth and improved operational efficiency.

Klaus Schäfer, Managing Director, Crisplant, comments; "Baggage handling is crucial to the overall passenger experience and to the worldwide reputation of the airport. Providing a robust and energy-efficient, state-of-the-art system is therefore essential for El Dorado Airport to take its place as South America’s gateway to the world."

As part of the BEUMER Group, Crisplant integrates complete baggage handling solutions which combine advanced technologies in high-speed sorting, tracking, scanning, transport and control systems. Baggage handling systems are manufactured in-house in the BEUMER Group’s own factories to provide absolute control over build quality.