Why Modern Airports Are Switching to Automatic Tray Return Systems
The Growth of Air Travel
Air travel is booming across the globe, with airports handling millions of passengers every single day. While this growth is a sign of progress, it also brings a set of challenges—especially at airport security checkpoints. For many travelers, the most frustrating part of their journey is not the flight itself but the long, slow-moving lines at security. Bottlenecks, repeated manual checks, and delays in tray collection often create unnecessary stress for passengers and staff alike.
The Pressure on Modern Airports
Modern airports are under constant pressure to balance efficiency, security, and passenger comfort. At the same time, they need to cut operational costs and improve the overall flow of people and baggage. This is where the Automatic Tray Return System (ATRS) is making its mark.
What is ATRS and Why Does it Matter?
ATRS is a smart, automated solution designed to speed up the tray process at security checkpoints. Instead of passengers and staff scrambling to collect, stack, or carry trays back manually, ATRS automatically transports and redistributes them. This allows airport security officers to focus on what really matters—screening baggage and ensuring safety—while passengers enjoy a smoother, faster, and less stressful travel experience.
A Global Trend in Airport Security
No wonder airports worldwide, from Geneva to Singapore, are rapidly switching to ATRS. In this blog, we’ll explore what an Automatic Tray Return System is, why it has become a must-have for modern airports, its benefits, real-world case studies, and the future trends shaping this technology.
2. What is an Automatic Tray Return System?
Definition and Purpose
An Automatic Tray Return System (ATRS) is an advanced security checkpoint technology designed to automate the circulation of security trays at airports. Instead of relying on staff to manually collect trays after passengers have passed through security, ATRS automatically transports trays back to the start of the line.
How ATRS Works
The system relies on a combination of:
- Tray Conveyors – These move baggage tubs smoothly from the scanner to the return system.
- Sensors and Tracking Systems – Detect tray movements and ensure smooth circulation.
- Automatic Stackers and Dispensers – Collect used trays and feed them back to the front for new passengers.
- Integration with X-Ray Machines – Works hand-in-hand with baggage scanners to create a seamless checkpoint process.
Think of ATRS as a smart loop for trays. Passengers place their items in a tray, send it through the scanner, and after use, the tray is instantly transported back for the next traveler—without anyone having to touch it.
Why It’s Better Than Manual Handling
Manual tray collection often causes piles of trays to build up at the end of scanners, slowing down the entire process. ATRS removes this bottleneck, ensuring a continuous, fast, and hygienic flow of trays.
The Problems with Traditional Tray Handling
Bottlenecks and Delays
In traditional security setups, trays pile up at the end of the line. Staff members must pause their duties to carry them back, which creates unnecessary delays. During peak travel times, this slows down thousands of passengers.
Labor-Intensive Processes
Manual tray return requires constant staff involvement. Employees who should be focusing on security often spend time handling trays, leading to inefficiencies and additional labor costs.
Hygiene and Safety Risks
In a post-pandemic world, hygiene is a top concern. Manually handled trays increase the risk of contamination as hundreds of passengers touch the same surfaces daily. ATRS minimizes touchpoints by circulating trays automatically.
Passenger Frustration
Long queues and repeated delays cause stress and dissatisfaction. In today’s competitive travel market, airports are judged not only by flight experience but also by the efficiency of their security checks.