EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg has initiated a comprehensive modernization of its passenger handling facilities. Since mid-February 2026, passengers of selected airlines have been able to check in their luggage independently using new self-service kiosks, known as Self Bag Drop units. As a first step, a total of 24 check-in kiosks and 14 baggage drop machines have been put into operation in Halls 2 and 4. The aim of this technological upgrade is to accelerate handling processes, particularly during peak travel times, and to significantly reduce waiting times for passengers.
The introduction of the self-service kiosks is part of a larger infrastructure project at the binational airport. Due to the installation work, Check-in Hall 3 has been temporarily closed to the public. The reopening of this hall, which will also be equipped with the latest generation of terminals, is planned for the end of May 2026. This means that all four of the airport's check-in halls will be available again in time for the start of the summer season. Ground handling will continue to be coordinated by the service provider Swissport, which will assist passengers with the transition to the digital processes.
Additional industry analyses confirm that EuroAirport is responding to the steadily increasing passenger volume in the tri-border region with this investment. Comparable systems at other European regional airports have shown that automation can increase the capacity of check-in counters by up to 30 percent. Passengers are asked to check in online before arriving at the airport to minimize the time spent at the kiosks, which now only involve printing the baggage tag and weighing the suitcase. In the next phase, more airlines will be integrated into the system to enable widespread use.
The technological upgrade is part of the airport's long-term strategy to optimize operations through digitalization. In addition to the new check-in facilities, the airport is also investing in modernizing security checks and border control to meet the demands of its status as a major hub for business and leisure travel. By separating manual counter service from baggage drop-off, staff gain the flexibility to assist travelers with more complex requests, while routine tasks are handled by passengers themselves.