While Logan Forward projects are being implemented, Massport is already planning for future infrastructure investments to further streamline airport operations and improve the passenger experience.
Intermodal Transportation Center (ITC)
A potential Intermodal Transportation Center (ITC) may provide a dedicated location for pickups and dropoffs for App Ride, taxi and limo users, and, possibly, water ferry users. The system would promote HOV use by promising HOV modes priority access to terminal curbs. Passengers arriving via other commercial modes would be transported from the ITC to the terminals with buses, an automated people mover, or other technology along a dedicated route. The reduction in vehicle miles traveled on airport roadways would be the equivalent of half a million gallons of gas per year.
An Airport of the Future
Beyond an ITC, Massport is looking to the airport of the future. At Logan Airport, we will soon introduce bag check at the new App Ride dropoff areas in the Central Garage, thus allowing passengers to begin their journey baggage free. Airlines are also exploring technologies that would enable baggage to have its own permanent ID. Passengers could check their bags remotely at their hotels, transit centers, or other off-airport locations while taking advantage of real-time baggage tracking.
At Logan Airport, JetBlue is already testing facial recognition equipment as a way to speed the aircraft boarding process. New technologies could one day scan people and their belongings as they walk through the terminal thereby eliminating the need to line up for security screening. Better use of SMART technologies can enable gate delivery services, so passengers can order food — or an item they forgot to pack — and have it delivered directly to them before boarding.
All of these technologies aim to create an efficient and stress-free experience for passengers traveling through the airport, while ensuring safety.