United Airlines has launched a new trial with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to simplify baggage handling for international passengers. The International Remote Baggage Screening system removes the need to re-check bags after arriving in the U.S.
Trial Runs on Sydney–San Francisco Route
The system is currently being tested on United’s daily Sydney to San Francisco flights. Since launch, over 160 passengers per flight have used it, saving up to 45 minutes of connection time at the busy hub.
How the System Works
Passengers arriving in San Francisco with onward connections no longer need to collect bags after customs. Instead, checked luggage is screened jointly by CBP and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) before being automatically transferred to connecting flights.
Flexibility for Security Checks
While most bags transfer seamlessly, CBP retains the ability to pull any luggage for extra inspection. Passengers, however, skip the traditional baggage claim step and only collect their bags once they reach their final destination.
Partners Supporting the Initiative
The trial is supported by Sydney Airport along with baggage solution providers BagCheck and Brock Solutions. United has said it intends to expand the system to more international routes in the coming months.
Boost to Passenger Experience
According to Sydney Airport’s chief executive, the new process has been especially valuable on the high-traffic Sydney–San Francisco service. Both United and the airport call the trial a significant step in improving efficiency and traveller convenience.
