Introducing the BNP Innovation and Research Department

The BNP Innovation and Research Department was established with the goal of supporting the development of next-generation baggage handling systems through targeted research and innovation. Working closely with airports, airlines, and industry stakeholders, the department explores emerging technologies, produces technical publications such as white papers, and supports solution design to improve efficiency and sustainability in real-world airport operations. By connecting research with practical application, the department ensures that innovation is scalable, relevant, and aligned with the needs of the broader aviation ecosystem.

Looking ahead, the BNP Innovation and Research Department’s vision is to shape the future of airport operations. Through deep collaboration with industry partners, it is reimagining baggage handling as an intelligent, transparent, and adaptive logistics backbone rather than a hidden black box function. By accelerating advances in digitalization, robotics, autonomous transport, and AI-driven predictivity, the department is helping lay the foundation for more self-service-oriented, resilient, and environmentally responsible systems, supporting smarter, more connected, and future-ready airports.

Under the leadership of Idar Sørgjerd, the BNP Innovation and Research Department is positioned at the forefront of innovation in airport baggage handling and logistics. Idar is a seasoned aviation and technology leader with more than 25 years of experience across baggage handling systems, automation, and large-scale airport infrastructure programs. He has led major airport modernization initiatives, founded and scaled aviation technology companies, delivered turnkey BHS projects across Europe and North America, and advanced the global adoption of self-service bag drop solutions. With an engineering degree in electrical automation and advanced management education, he combines deep technical expertise with strategic leadership.