Abstract: An automated method of manufacturing an air conveyor panel. The panel includes an array of holes used as air nozzles. The method generally includes the steps of mapping with a computer the desired location, shape and axial orientation of cavities to be machined in the panel, sequentially directing a laser beam at each desired location of cavities also with the computer; sequentially laser ablation drilling cavities by photothermally vaporizing a portion of the panel at each desired location. A major portion of the cavities consists of holes piercing the panel for use as air nozzles. The laser beam has an intensity sufficient to photothermally vaporize a portion of the panel at each desired location. In a preferred embodiment, the panel is constructed of steel and has a thickness of about 0.1 to 1.2 cm while the nozzles have a diameter of 3/4 mm to 2 mm.