Complex Aviation Systems Equipment Evaluation and Selection: Case Study of Airport Outbound Hold-Baggage Processing Systems

<p dir="ltr">The escalating demand for air travel places significant stress on the operational capacities of airport infrastructure. This impact is particularly pronounced in the Baggage Handling System (BHS), which constitutes a pivotal aspect of an airport's functional architecture. This study, framed within the context of Melbourne Airport, embarks on a qualitative exploration to unravel the complexities associated with optimising BHS technology selection and integration while ensuring alignment with security requirements and varying baggage dimensions.</p><p dir="ltr">The underpinning theoretical framework amalgamates institutional and stakeholder theory paradigms. This theoretical synthesis sheds light on the socio-institutional undercurrents and stakeholder dynamics that influence the adoption and assimilation of BHS technology in airport environments. This theoretical foundation enables a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted challenges that emerge during the modernisation of Baggage Handling Systems.</p><p dir="ltr">Methodologically, this study adopted a qualitative research approach, employing thematic analysis as its primary analytical vehicle. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a cohort of airport authorities, staff, and technology suppliers using purposive sampling. This methodological rigour ensures the acquisition of rich and contextually relevant insights while upholding ethical considerations.</p><p dir="ltr">Within the thematic analysis framework, 18 distinct themes emerged, encompassing critical facets such as regulatory compliance, operational efficiency enhancement, technological decision-making, integration complexities, and strategic implications. The analytical discourse uncovered intricate patterns and trends interwoven within these themes, delineating the multidimensional landscape shaping BHS technology choices. These 18 identified themes provide a comprehensive framework for understanding the management of Baggage Handling Systems, representing a principal outcome of this research project.</p><p dir="ltr">The research results emphasise the importance of ensuring BHS systems align with ever-changing security regulations. An important finding indicates that employing single BHS processing systems can streamline operations when dealing with diverse baggage types. Additionally, the study examines the complexities of assessing and integrating security scanning technologies, which play a crucial role in ensuring passenger safety and BHS operational effectiveness.</p><p dir="ltr">The tangible implications of this study traverse a practical spectrum. Airports navigating the challenges of BHS expansion will draw insights from the delineated operational parameters. The strategic selection of BHS technology suppliers assumes heightened prominence in minimising technological entrenchment risks. Furthermore, building upon the aforementioned thematic framework, this study develops a 15-step operational roadmap for future-proofing airport operations, particularly in the Baggage Handling System, airside operations involving ground handler movements, and for enhancing the customer experience concerning evolving security dynamics and passenger expectations.</p><p dir="ltr">In practical terms, the insights gleaned from this study can significantly inform the decisions of Melbourne Airport authorities and support the decision-making and evaluation processes of a broader set of aviation professionals and policymakers aiming to enhance baggage handling efficiency, passenger experience, and security measures at airports. The implications extend to the strategic selection of BHS suppliers and security scanning technologies, and to the adoption of dual supplier strategies to ensure operational resilience. Additionally, this study contributes academically by offering a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted aspects involved in selecting, implementing, and integrating advanced BHS technology to meet requirements for handling different-sized baggage securely.</p>