Kansai International Airport in Japan recently celebrated a major achievement – it has not lost a piece of luggage in its 30-year history. This impressive record has earned the airport the Skytrax award for World’s Best Airport for Baggage Delivery in 2024, an honor they have received eight times. The airport, located in Osaka, serves millions of passengers annually and credits its success to the daily efforts and careful work of everyone involved, including airlines and handling companies.
In the 2023 fiscal year, the airport handled about 10 million baggage items with no reported losses. The secret to their success lies in the “multilayered checking work” carried out by two or three staffers who meticulously assess the types and number of bags for each plane, as well as its passenger transit information. This detailed approach helps prevent mistakes and ensures efficient baggage delivery. The airport has a manual outlining specific rules for each airline, which is regularly updated based on staff suggestions and experience.
Despite their impressive achievements, airport staff do not consider their work to be anything out of the ordinary. Kenji Takanishi, a public relations officer for Kansai, stated that they simply carry out their daily tasks as usual and are recognized for their hard work. The staff, particularly those working on the ground, feel pleased to receive the award but do not see their efforts as remarkable. The airport’s goal is to get bags to baggage claim within 15 minutes after the aircraft’s arrival, a target that they consistently meet.
Looking ahead, Kansai International Airport is expected to see an increase in passengers during the 2025 fiscal year, with an estimated 37.3 million passengers due to the global-innovation forum World Expo 2025. The airport continues to prioritize efficiency, customer service, and meticulous baggage handling to maintain its reputation as one of the best airports for baggage delivery in the world. The airport’s success is a testament to the dedication and collaboration of all those involved, from airline staff to handling companies, who work tirelessly to ensure a seamless travel experience for every passenger.
In conclusion, Kansai International Airport in Japan has set a high standard for baggage delivery, with a flawless record of no lost luggage in its 30-year history. This achievement has been recognized with the Skytrax award for World’s Best Airport for Baggage Delivery multiple times. The airport’s success can be attributed to its meticulous baggage handling procedures, manual outlining specific airline rules, and constant updates based on staff feedback. Despite their accolades, the airport staff view their work as routine and are dedicated to providing exceptional service to passengers. With an expected increase in passengers in the coming years, the airport remains committed to delivering baggage efficiently and maintaining its reputation as a top airport for baggage handling worldwide.
