On 1 July 2006, SAA will role out its baggage wrapping system at Johannesburg International Airport, with all SAA baggage being wrapped by automated machines. Initially, the first machine will be placed in the domestic terminal and will be boosted with an additional machine, as well as two machines in the international terminal, by July 15.

SAA flies more than seven million people a year and handles between 500 000 and 700 000 bags per month. Of this figure, theft from baggage (pilferage) and other baggage related problems such as damaged bags and baggage that arrives at incorrect destinations, constitutes 0.07 percent of the total.

While the problem of baggage pilferage is something experienced by airlines all over the world, SAA identified this as a priority, to assist customers, providing them with greater peace of mind.

"Just one lost or pilfered bag is one too many and I believe this is something our customers will welcome," says Vishnu Naicker, SAA Chief Risk Officer.

The airline investigated what systems international carriers are using and initiated a pilot project where bags were completely wrapped in plastic. The pilot project yielded a 100 percent success rate, which lead to the programme being launched on Wednesday.

"SAA at Johannesburg International Airport will be the first airline and airport in Africa to come up with this solution that will be offered at no cost to the customer," says Naicker.

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