Rethinking Airport Baggage Systems: Design, Operations & the Future of Automation

In this episode of The BagFather, hosts Marlon van der Meer and Jen Zemba sit down with Ryan E. Gales and Azmat Aulakh from Jenkins/Gales & Martinez, Inc. (JGM) to explore the complexities of airport baggage handling system design and the evolving demands of modern airport operations.

The conversation dives into the real-world challenges of designing and operating baggage systems, from working within tight physical constraints to integrating new technologies with legacy infrastructure. Drawing on their experience across major airport projects, the team shares how JMC evolved from architectural design into a leader in baggage operations and long-term system maintenance, bringing a more holistic, end-to-end perspective to the industry.

This episode also covers:
• Why baggage systems are often introduced too late in terminal design
• The importance of early collaboration; architects, engineers, operations teams
• Reliable performance and high passenger expectations in intense settings

• Designing systems adaptable to future technologies and operational changes
• The role of automation and AI in optimising routing and maintenance
• Innovations in tracking, including RFID and IoT-enabled visibility 

• Sustainability challenges and energy-efficient systems in reducing environmental impact

Looking ahead, the discussion explores what the future of baggage could look like, from automated delivery and expanded curbside check-in to smarter, more connected systems that reduce friction across the passenger journey.

The four highlight the critical role baggage plays in the overall airport experience and why better design, stronger collaboration, and smarter technology are key to building more efficient, resilient, and passenger-focused operations. As you listen, consider: how can better baggage system design transform the entire airport journey, from check-in to carousel?

 

Follow & Catch Up With Us

Want more from The BagFather? Tap in for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes moments, and everything that doesn’t make it into the mic.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebagfatherpod/

YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TheBagfatherPod

 

Follow and come along for the journey.

Ryan E. Gales

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryangales/

CEO/Project Manager at JGM

Azmat Aulakh

https://www.linkedin.com/in/azmataulakh/

NYNJ Lead at JGM

Rethinking Airport Baggage Systems: Design, Operations &amp; the Future of Automation
In this episode of The BagFather, hosts Marlon van der Meer and Jen Zemba sit down with Ryan E. Gales and Azmat Aulakh from Jenkins/Gales &amp; Martinez, Inc. (JGM) to explore the complexities of airport baggage handling system design and the evolving demands of modern airport operations.
The conversation dives into the real-world challenges of designing and operating baggage systems, from working within tight physical constraints to integrating new technologies with legacy infrastructure. Drawing on their experience across major airport projects, the team shares how JMC evolved from architectural design into a leader in baggage operations and long-term system maintenance, bringing a more holistic, end-to-end perspective to the industry.
This episode also covers: &bull; Why baggage systems are often introduced too late in terminal design &bull; The importance of early collaboration; architects, engineers, operations teams &bull; Reliable performance and high passenger expectations in intense settings
&bull; Designing systems adaptable to future technologies and operational changes &bull; The role of automation and AI in optimising routing and maintenance &bull; Innovations in tracking, including RFID and IoT-enabled visibility&nbsp;
&bull; Sustainability challenges and energy-efficient systems in reducing environmental impact
Looking ahead, the discussion explores what the future of baggage could look like, from automated delivery and expanded curbside check-in to smarter, more connected systems that reduce friction across the passenger journey.
The four highlight the critical role baggage plays in the overall airport experience and why better design, stronger collaboration, and smarter technology are key to building more efficient, resilient, and passenger-focused operations. As you listen, consider: how can better baggage system design transform the entire airport journey, from check-in to carousel?
&nbsp;
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>
&nbsp;
Follow and come along for the journey.
Ryan E. Gales
<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryangales/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryangales/</a>
CEO/Project Manager at JGM
Azmat Aulakh
<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/azmataulakh/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/azmataulakh/</a>
NYNJ Lead at JGM

Ryan E. Gales/Azmat Aulakh: Designing Airport Baggage Systems | Beyond Check-In

In this episode of The BagFather, hosts Marlon van der Meer and Jen Zemba sit down with Anja Schumacher, Head of Baggage Product at Lufthansa, and Juergen Lehmann, Senior Manager of Baggage Operations. Together, they explore Lufthansa’s ongoing journey to reimagine baggage handling through innovation, customer insight, and operational resilience.

Lufthansa's customer-centric baggage services, driven by passenger and employee feedback, led to improvements like streamlined check-in. Reflecting on the 2022 baggage crisis, the guests explain how unprecedented post-pandemic demand strained operations. Lufthansa responded by rapidly adjusting processes, increasing resources, and using digital tools, which accelerated innovation and fostered a culture of agility in baggage handling.

The episode also explores:
How customer feedback shapes baggage innovation at Lufthansa
Key lessons learned from the 2022 baggage disruption crisis
Building operational resilience in a fast-changing travel environment
The role of digital tools in improving communication and transparency
Emerging technologies transforming baggage handling systems
Automation and off-site baggage drop solutions to improve efficiency
Sustainability efforts to reduce lost luggage and environmental impact
How agility and adaptability have become core to post-pandemic operations

Throughout the episode, a consistent theme emerges: the importance of collaboration between frontline staff, operations teams, and product leaders in shaping meaningful innovation. By the end, listeners gain a clear view of how Lufthansa is combining technology, teamwork, and passenger insight to build a more reliable and seamless baggage experience worldwide.

 

Follow & Catch Up With Us

Want more from The BagFather? Tap in for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes moments, and everything that doesn’t make it into the mic.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebagfatherpod/

YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TheBagfatherPod

 

Follow and come along for the journey.

Anja Schuhmacher

https://www.linkedin.com/in/anja-schuhmacher-329ab78/

Head of Baggage Product at Lufthansa

 

Juergen Lehmann

https://www.linkedin.com/in/j%C3%BCrgen-lehmann-41b07a105/

Senior Manager of Baggage Operations

In this episode of The BagFather, hosts Marlon van der Meer and Jen Zemba sit down with Anja Schumacher, Head of Baggage Product at Lufthansa, and Juergen Lehmann, Senior Manager of Baggage Operations. Together, they explore Lufthansa&rsquo;s ongoing journey to reimagine baggage handling through innovation, customer insight, and operational resilience.
Lufthansa's customer-centric baggage services, driven by passenger and employee feedback, led to improvements like streamlined check-in. Reflecting on the 2022 baggage crisis, the guests explain how unprecedented post-pandemic demand strained operations. Lufthansa responded by rapidly adjusting processes, increasing resources, and using digital tools, which accelerated innovation and fostered a culture of agility in baggage handling.
The episode also explores:
<ul>
<li aria-level="1">How customer feedback shapes baggage innovation at Lufthansa</li>
<li aria-level="1">Key lessons learned from the 2022 baggage disruption crisis</li>
<li aria-level="1">Building operational resilience in a fast-changing travel environment</li>
<li aria-level="1">The role of digital tools in improving communication and transparency</li>
<li aria-level="1">Emerging technologies transforming baggage handling systems</li>
<li aria-level="1">Automation and off-site baggage drop solutions to improve efficiency</li>
<li aria-level="1">Sustainability efforts to reduce lost luggage and environmental impact</li>
<li aria-level="1">How agility and adaptability have become core to post-pandemic operations</li>
</ul>
Throughout the episode, a consistent theme emerges: the importance of collaboration between frontline staff, operations teams, and product leaders in shaping meaningful innovation. By the end, listeners gain a clear view of how Lufthansa is combining technology, teamwork, and passenger insight to build a more reliable and seamless baggage experience worldwide.
&nbsp;
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>
&nbsp;
Follow and come along for the journey.
Anja Schuhmacher
<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/anja-schuhmacher-329ab78/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/anja-schuhmacher-329ab78/</a>
Head of Baggage Product at Lufthansa
&nbsp;
Juergen Lehmann
<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/j%C3%BCrgen-lehmann-41b07a105/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/j%C3%BCrgen-lehmann-41b07a105/</a>
Senior Manager of Baggage Operations

Anja Schuhmacher/Juergen Lehmann: How Lufthansa Uses Technology to Win Passenger Trust

In this episode of The BagFather, hosts Marlon van der Meer and Jen Zemba welcome Ina Eldøy, founder of Norway’s BagID, a company reshaping the baggage handling experience through smart, reusable electronic bag tags. 

The conversation explores how BagID is challenging the status quo of traditional baggage handling by introducing digital solutions that improve tracking accuracy, streamline check-in processes, and reduce reliance on disposable paper tags. Drawing on her deep aviation background, Ina shares the story behind BagID’s founding, the operational gaps she set out to solve, and how the company has evolved into a technology disruptor within the airline industry.

This episode also covers:
• Challenges of lost luggage, limited tracking, and inefficient baggage workflows
• How reusable electronic bag tags support sustainability goals by cutting paper waste and promoting eco-conscious travel
• The growing shift toward software-driven infrastructure across airlines/airports
• Building strategic partnerships with airlines, airports, and regulatory bodies to enable large-scale adoption
• Staying ahead of rapid technological change while meeting evolving passenger expectations
• The importance of diversity in aviation and technology, and empowering more women and underrepresented groups to lead innovation

The episode highlights how collaboration, adaptability, and forward-thinking technology are transforming one of travel’s most overlooked touchpoints: the checked bag. As you listen, consider: How can smarter baggage solutions redefine the passenger journey from curb to carousel?

In this episode of The BagFather, hosts Marlon van der Meer and Jen Zemba welcome Ina Eld&oslash;y, founder of Norway&rsquo;s BagID, a company reshaping the baggage handling experience through smart, reusable electronic bag tags.&nbsp;
The conversation explores how BagID is challenging the status quo of traditional baggage handling by introducing digital solutions that improve tracking accuracy, streamline check-in processes, and reduce reliance on disposable paper tags. Drawing on her deep aviation background, Ina shares the story behind BagID&rsquo;s founding, the operational gaps she set out to solve, and how the company has evolved into a technology disruptor within the airline industry.
This episode also covers: &bull; Challenges of lost luggage, limited tracking, and inefficient baggage workflows &bull; How reusable electronic bag tags support sustainability goals by cutting paper waste and promoting eco-conscious travel &bull; The growing shift toward software-driven infrastructure across airlines/airports &bull; Building strategic partnerships with airlines, airports, and regulatory bodies to enable large-scale adoption &bull; Staying ahead of rapid technological change while meeting evolving passenger expectations &bull; The importance of diversity in aviation and technology, and empowering more women and underrepresented groups to lead innovation
The episode highlights how collaboration, adaptability, and forward-thinking technology are transforming one of travel&rsquo;s most overlooked touchpoints: the checked bag. As you listen, consider: How can smarter baggage solutions redefine the passenger journey from curb to carousel?

Ina Eldøy: The Future of Baggage Handling | A High-Tech Journey of Your Suitcase

In this episode of The BagFather, hosts Marlon van der Meer and Jen Zemba welcome Alfie Watts, acclaimed travel influencer and winner of BBC’s Race Across the World, for an engaging conversation on modern travel and the art of packing smart.

Alfie, drawing on high-pressure competition, details his minimalist packing philosophy. He explains how traveling light reduces stress and increases flexibility, citing Race Across the World moments where strategic packing was key to adapting and succeeding.

This episode also covers:
• Tips for minimalist/carry-on-only travel without sacrificing the essentials
• Navigating airline baggage policies, avoiding excess fees, and handling lost or delayed luggage
• Budget travel tips, including finding affordable flights and maximizing limited resources on the road
• Managing international travel complexities 
Technology in travel and how to balance convenience with staying present
• The emotional realities of life on the move, including resilience, adaptability, and personal growth through travel
• Emerging trends in baggage innovation, including smart luggage, sustainable materials, and shifting airline policies

Throughout the discussion, Alfie blends practical advice with personal anecdotes and humor, offering listeners both inspiration and actionable guidance. The conversation highlights how preparation, flexibility, and mindset can transform the travel experience; whether you’re racing across continents or simply navigating your next airport departure.

 

Follow & Catch Up With Us

Want more from The BagFather? Tap in for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes moments, and everything that doesn’t make it into the mic.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebagfatherpod/

YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TheBagfatherPod

Follow and come along for the journey.

 

Alfie Watts

https://www.instagram.com/_alfiewatts_/?hl=en

Youngest ‘Race Around The World’ winner

In this episode of The BagFather, hosts Marlon van der Meer and Jen Zemba welcome Alfie Watts, acclaimed travel influencer and winner of BBC&rsquo;s Race Across the World, for an engaging conversation on modern travel and the art of packing smart.
Alfie, drawing on high-pressure competition, details his minimalist packing philosophy. He explains how traveling light reduces stress and increases flexibility, citing Race Across the World moments where strategic packing was key to adapting and succeeding.
This episode also covers: &bull; Tips for minimalist/carry-on-only travel without sacrificing the essentials &bull; Navigating airline baggage policies, avoiding excess fees, and handling lost or delayed luggage &bull; Budget travel tips, including finding affordable flights and maximizing limited resources on the road &bull; Managing international travel complexities&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Technology in travel and how to balance convenience with staying present &bull; The emotional realities of life on the move, including resilience, adaptability, and personal growth through travel &bull; Emerging trends in baggage innovation, including smart luggage, sustainable materials, and shifting airline policies</li>
</ul>
Throughout the discussion, Alfie blends practical advice with personal anecdotes and humor, offering listeners both inspiration and actionable guidance. The conversation highlights how preparation, flexibility, and mindset can transform the travel experience; whether you&rsquo;re racing across continents or simply navigating your next airport departure.
&nbsp;
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.
&nbsp;
Alfie Watts
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/_alfiewatts_/?hl=en">https://www.instagram.com/_alfiewatts_/?hl=en</a>
Youngest &lsquo;Race Around The World&rsquo; winner

Alfie Watts: How To Travel Light & Live Large | Lessons from a Race Across the World Winner

In this episode of The BagFather, hosts Marlon van der Meer and Jen Zemba welcome Dr. Joel Greenberg, the founder and CEO of Quadridox, a company at the forefront of aviation security technology. 

The episode delves deep into Quadridox’s groundbreaking advancement: the integration of X-ray diffraction technology with advanced artificial intelligence algorithms to revolutionize the way checked baggage is screened at airports. Dr. Greenberg provides an in-depth look at the origins of this technology, tracing its roots from early-stage academic research in material science and imaging, through years of development and prototyping, to its current real-world trials in major international airports.

This episode also covers:
• The technical and logistical challenges of bringing lab innovations into large-scale industry use
• Navigating regulatory requirements and collaborating with airport authorities and security agencies
• How Quadridox’s approach dramatically reduces false alarms, improving both efficiency and passenger experience
• The importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between scientists, engineers, and policymakers
• The role of public trust and transparent communication in the adoption of next-generation security technologies

The conversation ultimately reflects on how innovation, cooperation, and vision can redefine global aviation security. As you listen, consider: How do you think emerging technologies should shape the future of airport safety and the passenger journey?

Follow & Catch Up With Us

Want more from The BagFather? Tap in for exclusive content, behind-the-scenes moments, and everything that doesn’t make it into the mic.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebagfatherpod/

YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@TheBagfatherPod

Follow and come along for the journey.



Dr. Joel Greenberg

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-greenberg-phd-atquadridox/

President and CEO of Quadridox

In this episode of The BagFather, hosts Marlon van der Meer and Jen Zemba welcome Dr. Joel Greenberg, the founder and CEO of Quadridox, a company at the forefront of aviation security technology.&nbsp;
The episode delves deep into Quadridox&rsquo;s groundbreaking advancement: the integration of X-ray diffraction technology with advanced artificial intelligence algorithms to revolutionize the way checked baggage is screened at airports. Dr. Greenberg provides an in-depth look at the origins of this technology, tracing its roots from early-stage academic research in material science and imaging, through years of development and prototyping, to its current real-world trials in major international airports.
This episode also covers: &bull; The technical and logistical challenges of bringing lab innovations into large-scale industry use &bull; Navigating regulatory requirements and collaborating with airport authorities and security agencies &bull; How Quadridox&rsquo;s approach dramatically reduces false alarms, improving both efficiency and passenger experience &bull; The importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between scientists, engineers, and policymakers &bull; The role of public trust and transparent communication in the adoption of next-generation security technologies
The conversation ultimately reflects on how innovation, cooperation, and vision can redefine global aviation security. As you listen, consider: How do you think emerging technologies should shape the future of airport safety and the passenger journey?
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. 
Dr. Joel Greenberg
<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-greenberg-phd-atquadridox/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-greenberg-phd-atquadridox/</a>
President and CEO of Quadridox

Dr. Joel Greenberg: Reinventing Aviation Security Technology Through AI-Driven X-Ray Innovation

We wrap up Series One of The Bagfather with Jan Wicki from Noida International Airport.

As a brand new greenfield airport, Noida offers a rare opportunity to design a baggage system with no legacy constraints.

Jan takes us inside the planning process, the priorities, and what it means to start fresh in one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets.

 

We wrap up Series One of The Bagfather with Jan Wicki from Noida International Airport.
As a brand&nbsp;new greenfield airport, Noida offers a rare opportunity to design a baggage system with no legacy constraints.
Jan takes us inside the planning process, the priorities, and what it means to start fresh in one of the world&rsquo;s fastest-growing aviation markets.
&nbsp;

Blank Slate, Big Plans: Jan Wicki on Baggage at Noida International

Marker 01

This week on The Bagfather, we go deep with Jasper Quak, Managing Director of BAGTAG. We talk origins, obstacles and the growing momentum behind electronic bag tags. With a focus on sustainability, simplicity and scaling up, Jasper offers a clear-eyed view of what the future of baggage could—and should—look like.

This week on&nbsp;The Bagfather, we go deep with Jasper Quak, Managing Director of BAGTAG. We talk origins, obstacles and the growing momentum behind electronic bag tags. With a focus on sustainability, simplicity and scaling up, Jasper offers a clear-eyed view of what the future of baggage could&mdash;and should&mdash;look like.

Breaking the Paper Habit: Jasper Quak on the Rise of BAGTAG

This week, The Bagfather welcomes Jason Odey, the man behind baggage operations at Toronto Pearson. As Director of Baggage for one of North America’s busiest airports, Jason reveals the pressures, the wins and the behind-the-scenes strategies that keep things moving. It’s a rare look at the people and planning powering the passenger journey.

This week,&nbsp;The Bagfather&nbsp;welcomes Jason Odey, the man behind baggage operations at Toronto Pearson. As Director of Baggage for one of North America&rsquo;s busiest airports, Jason reveals the pressures, the wins and the behind-the-scenes strategies that keep things moving. It&rsquo;s a rare look at the people and planning powering the passenger journey.

Heavy Lifting: Jason Odey on the Realities of Baggage at a Major Hub

We go behind the scenes of aviation security with Matthew Vaughan, Director at IATA.

With a unique perspective on both policy and practice, Matthew breaks down the realities of keeping passengers, baggage and systems secure in an era of constant change.

From tech innovation to international collaboration, it’s a deep dive into the world few travellers ever see.

We go behind the scenes of aviation security with Matthew Vaughan, Director at IATA.
With a unique perspective on both policy and practice, Matthew breaks down the realities of keeping passengers, baggage and systems secure in an era of constant change.
From tech innovation to international collaboration, it&rsquo;s a deep dive into the world few travellers ever see.

Inside Aviation Security: A Global View with IATA’s Matthew Vaughan

In this bonus episode of The Bagfather, we bring together Jasper Quak from BAGTAG and Shawn Richards from Ink Innovation to discuss a partnership that’s reshaping how we handle baggage. From electronic bag tags to Ink’s newly launched platform Zero, we explore what seamless travel could look like—and how close we really are to getting there. It’s a candid conversation about collaboration, ambition and the next phase of passenger experience.

In this bonus episode of&nbsp;The Bagfather, we bring together Jasper Quak from BAGTAG and Shawn Richards from Ink Innovation to discuss a partnership that&rsquo;s reshaping how we handle baggage. From electronic bag tags to Ink&rsquo;s newly launched platform Zero, we explore what seamless travel could look like&mdash;and how close we really are to getting there. It&rsquo;s a candid conversation about collaboration, ambition and the next phase of passenger experience.

Zero Limits: BAGTAG and Ink on the Future of Travel Tech

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.

Your all-access pass to the world of baggage, aviation, and innovation.
Step into the fascinating world of baggage and aviation with&nbsp;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,&nbsp;The Bagfather&nbsp;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.&nbsp; 
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.

The Bagfather

Social links:

Follow the podcast:

18 clip(s)