NXP, Other Companies Preparing for Influx of RFID Baggage Technology Requests

Following the release of an updated recommended practice (RP) from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) that airline baggage tags come equipped with RFID functionality, technology firms are aligning themselves to offer the necessary UHF RFID-based products. NXP Semiconductors, Impinj, Alien Technology and Zebra Technologies are among those providing the RFID technology. The RP document, known as "RP 1740C," along with IATA's "Resolution 753" for accurate baggage handling, endorses UHF tags for bags and readers for airports and airlines to automatically track the status and location of luggage. The updated recommendation, drafted and submitted for approval at this year's IATA Passenger Services Conference (PSC), aims for the inclusion of RFID inlays in all bag tags manufactured after January 2020 (see Airline Industry Embraces RFID Baggage Tracking).