DALLAS--Siemens announced it was awarded a contract from Southwest Airlines for the turnkey integration of the mechanical, electrical and software systems for the baggage handling system in Terminal 1/ Node 5A at Las Vegas McCarran International Airport.
The new Node 5A system will make travel easier for customers by increasing screened baggage throughput. The new system is expected to process 2,000 bags per hour with a four machine matrix and will be an extension of the current Node 5 system.
“Southwest chose Siemens for this project because we have worked successfully with them in the past,” says Jimmy Dickerson, director of airport security technology, Southwest Airlines. “They have a proven understanding of airport logistics and can provide technology that will improve our customers’ experience when traveling through Las Vegas.”
The scope of the project includes the design, supply and installation of 11 high-speed diverters, belt conveyors, catwalks and other hardware required for a complete operational system. Siemens will also provide 3,000 linear ft. (914 m) of baggage handling conveyor, which will feed four L3 Explosive Detection Systems (EDS). “Siemens is committed to providing Southwest with the latest in baggage logistic technology and equipment to better serve its passengers,” says Lee Seward, vice president, Baggage Logistics and Cargo and Parcel Systems at Siemens. “The new baggage handling system will streamline the process, better enabling Southwest to provide its passengers with safe, fast and friendly service.”
Travelers will not be affected by the installation because a majority of the construction will be on the ramp with bags continuing to pass through Node 5 until the new system goes live. Any work taking place on or around the ticket counters will be done in phases or overnight. The project is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2009.
