Leeds Bradford Airport expansion plans get underway with self-service check-in Hall A upgrade

To improve passenger experience and speed up check-in processes, LBA is optimising available space by reconfiguring its Hall A, which currently handles the check-in of all non-Jet2 passengers.

The work will see the installation of 14 self-service kiosks and hybrid self-service automated bag drops, as well as four self-service check-in e-gates, all produced by self-service technology experts Elenium. 14 traditional manned check-in desks will also be installed, and the hall will be extensively refurbished.

It has been over six years since the airport last made an investment in passenger-focussed technology of this scale. This update is seen as a significant step towards bringing Leeds Bradford in line with the UK’s leading airports, at which self-service technology, and processes like biometric identification, are commonly deployed.

The work to reconfigure Hall A has begun and is expected to be complete by Easter 2023. Hall A will not be closed during the reconfiguration and day-to-day operations will not be adversely impacted.

Vincent Hodder, CEO of LBA, said: “The upgrading of Hall A will futureproof LBA, bringing us in line with the world’s leading airports. It is also an early, yet crucial, component of the long-term modernisation plans for our existing terminal, which will dramatically improve passenger and airline experience. Elenium’s industry-leading technology is a key part of these plans, and we’re looking forward to seeing it being used by our passengers soon.”

Aaron Hornlimann, CEO of Elenium, added: “We’re excited to be working with LBA to help it make its passenger experience world class and as seamless as possible. Combining speed and ease of use, our technology facilitates frictionless travel experiences, giving passengers more time to relax, explore and enjoy their journey. Improving infrastructure now, and getting the right technology gives LBA a platform making the airport and airlines ready for the future.”

Elenium creates self-service technology for multiple sectors, including aviation, healthcare, aged care and government infrastructure. The business specialises in digital identity, privacy, robotics, machine learning and data science.