Alaska Airlines new self bag drop at San Francisco Harvey Milk

Alaska Airlines has started using self bag drop at San Francisco International Airport’s Harvey Milk Terminal 1.

This new self-service system has 25 self bag drops to get passengers through the check-in process within minutes.

This fast process supports the airline’s long-term goal of reducing congestion and long lines in the check-in departure area.

The self bag drop system works in two steps:

Passengers scan their boarding pass to print the bag tags [Image: Alaska Airlines]

Step 1: Passengers scan their boarding pass at a bag tag station to print their bag tags. They attach the tags and head for step 2.

Step 2: Passengers place their bag into the self bag drop which checks that the bags are within weight and size limits before accepting the bag.

Each unit uses a 3D digital camera system to ensure a high first-time read rate of 95%, processing each bag in under 15 seconds.

The new self-service units are ADA-compliant to ensure they are accessible to all passengers, including those with disabilities. The design allows passengers to easily roll their bags onto the unit, with minimal effort required for lifting and handling.

Customer service agents are on hand to help those who need extra assistance.

Given that airlines and airports have been using self bag drops for at least a decade, it is surprising that Alaska is the first airline at SFO to offer passengers this service.

Alaska only started operations at the new San Francisco International Harvey Milk Terminal 1 a few weeks ago following a two-year relocation project from Terminal 2.

Alaska Airlines and new technology

Alaska are one of the leading airlines in introducing new technology to enhance the passenger experience.

For example, they announced last year that they are getting rid of self-service check-in kiosks. Passengers have to check-in online and then print tags at a kiosk, Since 2012, Alaska passengers have been able to self print tags at self-service check-in kiosks.