Leonardo, a leading global player in aerospace, defense and security, Mafa and Beltcon announce the award of a contract for the automation of the baggage handling system for the expansion of the Terminal 2 of Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Medina, in Saudi Arabia, operated by Tibah Airports Operation Company.
The project represents a significant milestone for all partners involved and marks the introduction of Leonardo's MBHS Cross-belt Sorter technology in the country for the first time. The system will be the heart of one of the most advanced baggage handling solutions in the region, supporting the continued expansion of an airport that currently serves around eight million passengers a year, with prospects for further growth.
This strategic collaboration unites Leonardo's airport automation technologies, internationally recognized, Mafa's regional leadership in airport infrastructure projects, and Germany's Beltcon's engineering expertise in baggage handling systems, conveyor technology, manufacturing, and systems integration. Together, the companies will provide a complete, reliable, and intelligent baggage handling solution, designed to meet the highest international operational standards.
Leonardo will supply its MBHS sorting machine, an industry-leading solution, along with its advanced Sort Allocation Computer (SAC), ensuring intelligent baggage routing for departures, transfers, and arrivals while ensuring seamless integration with the airport's operating systems. Mafa, in collaboration with Beltcon, will be responsible for the design, systems integration, manufacturing, installation, testing, commissioning, and delivery of the complete baggage handling system.
The project directly supports the aviation sector in Saudi Arabia and the objectives of “Vision 2030”, responding to the growing demand for passenger transport generated by tourism, from business travelers and the millions of pilgrims who travel to Medina every year for the Hajj and Umrah. The solution was specifically designed to ensure the high availability, operational flexibility, and future scalability required by one of the Kingdom's busiest international airports.
