Robot Leo does lion’s share of check-in work
See what the future could be bringing at airports. Airport technology company Sita has developed a robot called Leo that will take your bags as you arrive at the airport.
Leo, named after Leonardo da Vinci, then prints your baggage tags and receipt and gives you the boarding time and gate. It takes the luggage to the baggage handling area leaving you to head directly to security.
You can watch Leo in action on sita.aero
Faster security in Atlanta funded by Delta Airlines
Delays at security screening across the USA have become such an issue that Delta Airlines has funded the installation of automated security lines at Atlanta.
The system goes live this week. The new conveyor belts allow for five passengers to prepare for baggage screening at the same time, rather than single file.
The new system should decrease screening times by 20-30 per cent.
Atlanta is Delta’s home airport and the biggest hub for the airline.
Slowdown in US hotel sector
Two trend reports show a slight slowdown in the United States hotel sector.
CBRE’s Hotels Trends 2016 suggests that occupancy and revenue growth are slowing while operating costs are climbing.
This is seen as an indicator that hotels are at the top of the cycle.
STR’s forward report for the summer is noting a projected 0.4 per cent rise in occupancy and fairly weak pricing power.
Birthday carriers flying frequently to Newark in US
Transatlantic business is really picking up and United has announced that it will continue the twice daily Dublin-Newark service next winter, every day except Tuesday westbound.
United is celebrating 90 years in business this year.
Aer Lingus, which is celebrating its 80th birthday, will begin a daily service to Newark from September 1st.