AI, Innovation & Rebuilding Trust in Baggage Operations

In this episode of The BagFather, host Marlon van der Meer sits down with Gus Naughton, Principal Software Engineer at Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines, to explore how AI and digital innovation are transforming baggage handling behind the scenes.

The conversation starts with the airline industry’s shift from manual, fragmented processes to data-driven systems powered by AI. Gus shares how machine learning is improving lost baggage matching, detecting fraudulent claims, and uncovering operational patterns that were previously invisible; helping teams move faster and make better decisions in real time.

This episode also covers:
• How AI-generated code is accelerating software development in aviation
• The “Return to Sender” app and how it cuts bag processing
• Using AI to detect fraud and improve claim accuracy
• The rollout of electronic bag tags and real-time baggage visibility
• Building better tools through first hand airport operations experience 
• The role of data dashboards/orchestration tools in optimising baggage flow
• Lessons learned from large-scale disruptions and peak travel periods

Moving beyond tech, Gus explores operational ownership and relationship-building, advocating for design that serves both passengers and staff. He further discusses rebuilding industry trust in checked baggage following major disruptions and the Alaska–Hawaiian merger.

Gus outlines a future where better data sharing, smarter systems, and closer industry collaboration enable faster recovery, greater transparency, and a more reliable baggage experience. Throughout the episode, one theme stands out: innovation isn’t just about new tools—it’s about understanding real-world problems and solving them at scale.

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Gus Naughton

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gus-naughton-a401a062/

Principal Software Engineer at Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines

AI, Innovation &amp; Rebuilding Trust in Baggage Operations
In this episode of The BagFather, host Marlon van der Meer sits down with Gus Naughton, Principal Software Engineer at Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines, to explore how AI and digital innovation are transforming baggage handling behind the scenes.
The conversation starts with the airline industry&rsquo;s shift from manual, fragmented processes to data-driven systems powered by AI. Gus shares how machine learning is improving lost baggage matching, detecting fraudulent claims, and uncovering operational patterns that were previously invisible; helping teams move faster and make better decisions in real time.
This episode also covers: &bull; How AI-generated code is accelerating software development in aviation &bull; The &ldquo;Return to Sender&rdquo; app and how it cuts bag processing &bull; Using AI to detect fraud and improve claim accuracy &bull; The rollout of electronic bag tags and real-time baggage visibility &bull; Building better tools through first hand airport operations experience &bull; The role of data dashboards/orchestration tools in optimising baggage flow &bull; Lessons learned from large-scale disruptions and peak travel periods
Moving beyond tech, Gus explores operational ownership and relationship-building, advocating for design that serves both passengers and staff. He further discusses rebuilding industry trust in checked baggage following major disruptions and the Alaska&ndash;Hawaiian merger.
Gus outlines a future where better data sharing, smarter systems, and closer industry collaboration enable faster recovery, greater transparency, and a more reliable baggage experience. Throughout the episode, one theme stands out: innovation isn&rsquo;t just about new tools&mdash;it&rsquo;s about understanding real-world problems and solving them at scale.
Follow &amp; Catch Up With Us
Want more from The BagFather? Tap in for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes moments, and everything that doesn&rsquo;t make it into the mic.
Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thebagfatherpod/">https://www.instagram.com/thebagfatherpod/</a>
YouTube:<a href="https://www.youtube.com/@TheBagfatherPod">https://www.youtube.com/@TheBagfatherPod</a>
Follow and come along for the journey.
Gus Naughton
<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/gus-naughton-a401a062/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/gus-naughton-a401a062/</a>
Principal Software Engineer at Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines

Your all-access pass to the world of baggage, aviation, and innovation.

Step into the fascinating world of baggage and aviation with The Bagfather. This exciting podcast delves into the untold stories, innovative breakthroughs, and behind-the-scenes operations that keep the global travel industry moving.

Hosted by Marlon van der Meer and Jen Zemba, both seasoned professionals with years of experience in the skies and on the ground, The Bagfather uncovers the challenges, triumphs, and transformations shaping how people and their belongings travel across the globe. From industry leaders revolutionising baggage handling to captivating tales from the tarmac, this is a must-listen for aviation enthusiasts, tech lovers, and anyone curious about the hidden logistics of travel.

Because in this industry, every bag tells its own story.  

The Bagfather is a Fresh Air Production for Baggage Media. The producer is Julian Lorkin and the executive producer is Annie Day with editorial support from Caroline Blacklock-Vandy.