Our holistic approach to address current and future ATM needs.
This includes indirect emissions from things such as travel to and from airports.
We also take a look at some of the main terminal construction and renovation projects of 2023. With air travel returning to preCovid levels, airports are planning ahead to be prepared for growing passenger numbers.
Dear Readers,
For our 2023 issue, we take a look at inter airport Europe, which is taking place in Munich from 10–13 October. Looking at landside, airside and digital solutions, this event covers the whole of the airport industry.
In our feature article ‘Airports in Need of Ground Traffic Control’, Tiana May looks at the obstacles passengers cite for why they choose to drive rather than take public transport to airports. Further, airports are incentivised to encourage driving when this forms a major components of their revenue.
However, with increasing passenger numbers and the resulting challenge of accommodating private vehicles, airports would do well to increase the ways in which passengers can access them. And of course, decarbonising airport operations has been a big focus.
On p.20 you can read about how Luxembourg Airport Has Modernised Critical National Infrastructure with Cisco; while Frequentis has written about The Route to Greener Air Traffic Operations on p.24.
Our next Airport Industry-News magazine will be published on 30 May 2024.
If you want to be featured on the Airport Industry-News website or in our e-magazine, please email Andrew Lush or call +44 7432 725001.
Please enjoy this issue of our Airport Industry-News magazine!
Josephine Cordero Sapién, editor-in-chief
p.8 p.10 p.11 p.14
inter airport Europe
Upcoming Events
Airports in Need of Ground Traffic Control
Terminal Construction and Renovation Projects 2023
Supplier News p.20 p.22 p.24 p.28 p.32 p.35 p.42
Luxembourg Airport Has Modernised Critical National Infrastructure with Cisco
Radiocoms: Efficient and Safe De-icing: How Aero Mag Connect Its Teams
Frequentis: The Route to Greener Air Traffic Operations
Vaask: Why Airports Are Upgrading Their Hand Sanitiser Dispensers
API: The Definitive Choice for Crew Accommodations
KINTO Join: Balancing Efficiency and Revenue
Pollite: Elevating Aviation Safety through Frangible Approach Poles, Windsocks and CCTV Surveillance Masts
inter airport Europe brings together professionals from across the airport industry to explore developments in airport equipment, ground handling technology, terminal operations, airport IT and airport design. In doing so, it aims to promote innovation and growth as the sector continues to thrive following the pandemic.
Every two years, the event attracts thousands of visitors to take part in both the exhibition and its seminar programme. This year’s edition is noteworthy in that it aligns with the continued growth in passenger numbers following the pandemic and could help shape the future of post-covid air travel.
The inter airport Europe exhibition will be split into three segments: terminal, data and ramp with the aim of providing a one-stop shop for the industry. The terminal segment will focus on solutions and equipment for constructing and operating terminal buildings, as well as for the architectural design and planning of the airport. Meanwhile, the data area
Where: Munich Trade Fair Centre, Munich, Germany
When:
10–13 October 2023
Organiser:Mack-Brooks Exhibitions
will cover airport IT systems, data management solutions and connected systems to handle passengers, operations and air traffic. Lastly, the ramp segment will include ground handling and ground support equipment as well as runway construction and installations.
Specifically, companies specialising in the following areas will exhibit in the terminal section:
• Terminal construction and installations
• Architectural & interior design
• Signage and guidance systems
• Passenger information technology
• Security equipment
• Landside baggage and cargo handling
• Passenger handling
• Airport parking
• Vertiports
• Sustainable solutions and sustainability initiatives
• Consultancy services including outsourcing, privatisation and finance
The data section will include companies focussed on the following:
• Data management systems and solutions
• Artificial intelligence
• Infrastructure and terminal management
• Communication systems
• Passenger management
• Operations management
• Air traffic management
• Connected road / rail / air transport networks
Finally, the ramp segment will showcase the following products and services:
• Airfield construction
• Power supplies & cabling
• Airfield lighting
• Environmental impact management
• Pavement servicing
• Ground support equipment and services
• Aircraft handling
• Aircraft docking and passenger boarding bridges
• Airside baggage and cargo handling
• Airfield service equipment
• Aircraft maintenance
• eVTOLs, unmanned vehicles (UV) and cargo drones
To complement the exhibition, inter airport Europe’s seminar programme aims to provide companies with a platform to present and discuss the latest solutions and challenges in the industry. The seminars will take place in Hall B5 and will run across all four days.
The trending topics in this year’s programme are: ‘leading terminal technology,’ ‘disruptive digital innovations,’ and ‘cutting-edge apron insights.’
Sessions will range in length from 15 to 30 minutes and will each provide insight into the sector, while enabling attendees to discuss the industry’s continued recovery from the pandemic, the impacts of new technologies and the innovations that could revitalise progress.
Specific topics include: the impact of innovation on the passenger journey, green solutions and smart monitoring in powering aircraft, sustainable air traffic management, hydrogen at airports, and the use of autonomous vehicles.
The full seminar programme can be found here.
Supplementary to the main seminar programme, the event will also host inter airport FOCUS: a sustainability summit for the airport industry.
The summit will act as an interactive meeting point for key aviation stakeholders with the aim of providing ‘a runway to a greener future’. To do so, its discussion forum will focus on three main topics: building infrastructure, airport operations and intermodal mobility.
On 12 October, inter airport FOCUS will also host a one-day training course on sustainable airport design, construction & finance in partnership with the Airport City Academy. The course will explore opportunities to decarbonise construction and building operations, as emissions from this area can currently account for 30% of an airport’s carbon footprint.
These additional offerings at inter airport Europe should contribute towards an exciting and comprehensive event that will help pave the way for future developments and progress in the airport industry, benefitting airport stakeholders, staff and passengers.
BEUMER Group Stand B5-1450
ATG Airports Ltd Stand B5-1130
Siemens Logistics Stand B5-1238
Blast Deflectors, Inc. Stand B6-120
ewo GmbH Stand B5-1634
AUWEKO GmbH Stand B5-1874
With airports generally situated out of urban centres, surface access plays a significant role in enabling people to use air travel. To make a flight viable, airports must ensure passengers can confidently and conveniently access their point of departure at the required time. Furthermore, as the industry looks to decarbonise its operations, airport authorities must consider the indirect emissions caused by passengers and staff travelling to and from the airport and should work to encourage the use of more sustainable modes of transport.
According to research conducted by Transport Focus at London Heathrow Airport (LHR), the dominant factors that affect a passenger’s choice of travel to and from
the airport include: ease of travel with luggage (55%), quick journey time (47%), value for money (44%) and flexibility (41%). Although Heathrow is accessible by train, underground, bus and coach, the aforementioned priorities currently contribute towards the majority of passengers choosing to drive or be driven, with less than 40% using public transport.
These figures demonstrate that even when airports are considered well-connected to public transport links, passengers may not find such options desirable. This is likely impacted by the inconvenience of travelling with luggage, prolonged travel times, high ticket costs, and a lack of flexibility for passengers who could miss a set train or coach when a flight is delayed. In fact, even without a potential delay, it can be difficult to predict how long it will take to disembark the plane,
pass through Border Control and collect any luggage. In addition, at many airports, choosing to travel via public transport can limit one’s ability to book certain flights due to a lack of options early in the morning or late at night.
A preference towards driving consequently puts parking in high demand, allowing airports to benefit from a significant source of revenue. Indeed, Airport Council International’s (ACI) data reveals that on average, car parking accounts for approximately 20.1% of the total ancillary revenue of an airport. In many cases, airport operators are thus keen to continue meeting the demand for parking spaces and are investing in expanded facilities. For example, last year, the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) broke ground on a sixstorey parking garage for O’Hare International Airport (ORD) Terminal 5, which will double its parking capacity.
However, as passenger numbers are projected to grow, an influx of cars during peak times will inevitably increase congestion and reduce the convenience and reliability of travelling to the airport by road. Therefore, improving public transport links to and from the airport is equally imperative. For example, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is investing in an Automated People Mover (APM) to efficiently connect passengers to the city’s expanded metro network, while Brightline has recently finished construction on an intercity rail extension from West Palm Beach to Orlando International Airport (MCO). In addition, in the UK, London Luton Airport has commenced service on the new Luton DART to connect the airport with national rail services.
These projects will provide passengers with additional options for travelling to the airport and should result in an increased percentage of people choosing to use public transport. Indeed, LAX reports that currently, just 1 percent of its passengers use public transit to travel to the airport, thus falling significantly behind LHR and highlighting the benefits of Heathrow’s existing transport network. Such disparity may in part be due to the fact that passengers at LAX have to catch a shuttle bus to and from the nearest metro station to connect to the city’s rail network. I am thus intrigued to see how the introduction of the APM and the city’s K-line metro service will impact transport habits to and from LAX, especially in light of the upcoming 2028 Olympic Games and LA’s related investments in transport.
Due to the increased emphasis placed on sustainability and net zero targets, it is arguably all the more key for airports to improve their public transport links and help reduce emissions caused by surface access transport.
With this in mind, many airports have developed Surface Access Strategies to increase transport options and encourage the use of sustainable modes. For example, Heathrow’s plan for 2022 to 2026 establishes a set of targets to help “increase the proportion of journeys made to the airport by public transport for both airport workers and passengers.” This includes achieving a passenger public transport modal share of 45% by 2026 and reducing surface access carbon emissions by 49% by 2030 compared to a 2021 baseline of 747,879TCO2.
To meet these targets, LHR is implementing a range of interventions and initiatives to influence passengers and colleagues. Earlier this year, the Elizabeth line was fully integrated within its terminals to provide passengers with an additional rail link featuring air conditioning, Wi-Fi and ample luggage space. Meanwhile, the airport is also working with local authorities, bus operators and coach services to identify network improvements and increase their catchment areas. Additional projects include making the airport accessible for cyclists, making it easier to buy public transport tickets and increasing public awareness of the available services. Moreover, to highlight the financial benefits of using public transport, LHR has introduced a 5 GBP Terminal DropOff Charge (TDOC) for private vehicles and is also now included in the city’s ULEZ, which requires motorists to pay a 12.50 GBP daily fee for driving in London if their vehicle does not meet emissions standards.
As airports work towards decarbonising operations, such initiatives are tangible and achievable endeavours that can have a positive impact on reducing overall emissions. This is especially true for airports such as LAX that currently see so few passengers arriving and departing on public transport.
However, my own experience at international airports has not always convinced me that improving surface access is consistently a priority, particularly at airports in the US. Although Arrivals at Chicago O’Hare helpfully pointed me towards ‘Trains to the City’, many other
American airports are noticeably lacking in any signage for public transport services, instead solely directing passengers towards taxis, ride-hailing and car rental options. This adds significant inconvenience for tired travellers visiting an airport for the first time and hoping to catch a bus or train. At one airport, I even asked the Information Desk to direct me and my mother towards the bus stop only to be told, “Oh no, two lovely ladies like you don’t want to take a public bus.” Needless to say, we did take the bus and found it spacious, efficient and free to use. It is thus a shame that more tourists are not encouraged to benefit from such services, rather than forking out for a taxi and increasing their carbon footprint.
With such rudimentary pain points, there is still much progress to be made in encouraging passengers to travel more sustainably to and from the airport. Despite the fact that many aspects of public and active transport networks are not within their direct control, it is nonetheless vital for airports to consider surface access as part of their net zero roadmaps and to work with the relevant authorities to deliver improvements. Indeed, the UK’s 2022 Jet Zero Strategy explicitly states: “An aviation passenger’s journey includes more than the flight itself, and we want to ensure we have the right policies in place to encourage passengers and employees to travel on sustainable modes of transport to and from the airport where possible. As part of this, we will encourage airports to work with airlines, local authorities and local transport providers to consider how they can develop integrated service offerings with surface transport providers.”
As air travel continues to see rising passenger numbers following the pandemic, such strategies have the potential to help reduce the sector’s overall emissions while simultaneously improving the passenger experience by offering additional and enhanced travel options to and from the airport. Ideally, this outlook will ultimately be scaled worldwide to deliver international improvements across an innately international industry.
Following the decline in passenger numbers during the Covid-19 pandemic, the demand for air travel globally is now meeting and exceeding pre-pandemic levels. Airports are thus investing in redevelopment plans to ensure they are sufficiently prepared to process large numbers of passengers. Alongside the completion of previously delayed projects, this continued growth has resulted in a new wave of post-covid airport redevelopments.
Reflecting on 2023, here is my pick of stand-out terminal projects from across the world:
January – Newark Liberty International Airport (USA)
At the start of 2023, Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) commenced passenger operations at its new Terminal A on 12 January.
This new facility offers approximately one million square feet of space to accommodate 13.6 million passengers. It features 33 common-use gates alongside modernised check-in, security and baggage claim areas.
February – Kansas City International Airport (USA)
Kansas City International Airport’s (MCI) new single terminal opened on 28 February, replacing its three previous terminals. By consolidating operations, the new 1.1 million square foot terminal enhances operations across 40 modern gates, with capacity to expand to 50 in the future.
EWR’s new Terminal A © Port Authority of New York and New Jersey
Due to the installation of glass passenger boarding bridges at all gates, this new terminal also stands out as the largest all-glass facility in the US.
In March, Auckland Airport (AKL) confirmed plans invest 3.9 billion NZD in its terminal integration programme. This project will construct a new, fully integrated domestic terminal at the eastern end of the airport’s existing international terminal. This undertaking marks the airport’s largest redevelopment since it opened in 1966. Alongside improving the passenger experience, it will allow for larger and more efficient aircraft to operate on domestic flights.
The first phase of Chennai International Airport’s (MAA) new terminal was officially inaugurated on 8 April 2023. The new facility spans 136,295 square metres and has increased the airport’s capacity from 23 million passengers per year to 30 million passengers per year.
Its design incorporates cultural elements such as kolams and temples, while the latest technologies enhance passenger flow and optimise baggage handling.
In May, Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) presented Los Angeles International Airport’s (LAX) Terminal 9 construction project.
This project will involve 1.4 million square feet of ground-up construction to serve approximately 7.2 million annual passengers. It will include a 4-level building structure, two levels of parking, new roads and pedestrian pathways and baggage connections to the Central Terminal Area, as well as a connection to LAX’s upcoming automated people mover.
Once complete, the new terminal will have capacity for 12 wide-body or 17 narrow-body gates.
London Gatwick (LGW) has commenced work on its North Terminal redevelopment project, which will see 10 million GBP invested in improved comfort and wayfinding.
Upon its completion, the modernised departure lounge will feature contemporary seating divided into differentiated ‘mood zones’. These zones will allow passengers to choose how they spend their pre-flight time, with designated areas for relaxing, working or shopping.
© Chennai International Airport
The new Terminal 2 at Tokyo Haneda International Airport (HND) officially reopened for international flights on 19 July following a three-year closure.
Prior to March 2020, the terminal was used solely for domestic flights before undergoing a significant renovation programme to transform it into an international hub. However, just two weeks after it was unveiled, the terminal was shut due to the Covid-19
passengers.
August – Montréal Saint-Hubert Airport (CAN)
In August, preparatory construction works to build a new terminal at Montréal Saint-Hubert Airport (YHU) commenced. This project represents an investment of over 200 million CAD and is being carried out in partnership with Porter Airlines.
Tokyo Terminal 2 International Departure Lobby © Tokyo Haneda
The new terminal will span an area of 21,000 square metres and will feature nine new boarding gates.
This project is considered a key milestone in YHU’s ambition to firmly establish itself as a hub for commercial aviation.
September – Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (USA)
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) has commenced construction on its West Gate Expansion project.
Once open in 2026, this expansion will increase terminal space by an additional 84,500 gross square feet over three levels of apron, concourse and mezzanine space. It will add new food and retail spaces, public art, more seating areas and a third-level outdoor public patio with views of the city skyline.
Pune International Airport (PNQ) in Lohegaon, India is set to welcome the first passengers to its new terminal building in October.
This facility has an area of 50,000 square metres and incorporates ten new aerobridges, three of which will connect to the existing terminal building. It will also
provide 72 new check-in counters to help the airport efficiently process increased passenger numbers.
November – Abu Dhabi International Airport (UAE)
Abu Dhabi International Airport’s (AUH) new Terminal A is scheduled to open to passengers in November 2023. The new terminal will be able to process up to 11,000 passengers per hour thanks to its interconnected biometric and digital technologies. With 742,000 square metres of active space, it will be among the largest airport terminals in the world.
Terminal A will significantly increase Abu Dhabi International Airport’s capacity, accommodating up to 45 million passengers per year and operating up to 79 aircraft at any time.
December – Kansai International Airport (JPN)
VINCI Airports has announced that its remodelling works at Kansai International Airport (KIX) will be completed in December 2023. This project aims to improve the passenger experience by deploying new technologies at the airport’s check-in, immigration, retail and boarding areas.
In turn, it is anticipated that this work will help support Japan’s tourism recovery in the Osaka area.
Luxembourg’s only international airport, Luxembourg Airport (lux-Airport) recently modernised its technology infrastructure and simplified its operations with a host of Cisco technologies.
Vincent Booz knew he had a big job in front of him as the new IT director for Luxembourg Airport (luxAirport). But he didn’t know how big until he began assessing the airport’s legacy technology systems.
“It was a bit of a shock,” says Booz. “I thought they would be more advanced.”
Thus began a sweeping effort to modernise luxAirport’s technology infrastructure, with consolidation, cloud enablement, security and operational simplification as the top priorities.
Luxembourg Airport’s aging systems have since been replaced with a host of Cisco technologies, including Cisco UCS X-Series Modular Systems for collaboration, Cisco HyperFlex Systems for virtual workloads and
Cisco UCS C-Series Rack Servers for hyperscale storage. According to Booz, the technologies provide cloud connectivity as well as high levels of reliability and security.
“As Luxembourg’s only international airport,we represent critical infrastructure for the country,” he says.“Cisco solutions give us exceptional availability and security,whether we host our applications onpremises or in the cloud.”
In addition to modernising the airport’s technology infrastructure, Booz also wanted to bring systems management responsibilities in-house.
“Outsourcing is costly,” he explains,“and we wanted to regain control.”
The Cisco Intersight cloud operations platform has been a key enabler of the transition, allowing luxAirport to manage multiple platforms and hybrid workloads with a single tool.
“Bringing technology operations in-house hasn’t been a challenge,” Booz says. “We have much more visibility, insight and control,and everything is connected to the Cisco TAC [Technology Assistance Center] in case we ever have a problem and need help.”
With active/active redundancy and Commvault backup for on-premises and cloud-based workloads, systems availability and reliability haven’t been issues.
“There is no chance of failure or downtime,” Booz says.
Sustainability is also a major priority for lux-Airport, as one of 100 airports in Europe committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030. According to Booz, Cisco UCS X-Series servers and Cisco HyperFlex have helped reduce the airport’s technology and carbon footprints.
“Both platforms have the latest chipsets,and they’re smaller and more energy-efficient than legacy systems,” he says.“We’re also using fewer controllers, which typically require their own power source.”
Additional sustainability gains will soon be realised when the airport’s core network is modernised. Deploying the latest Cisco Nexus data centre switches and Cisco UCS fabric interconnects will allow lux-Airport to remove an entire layer of switches and associated cabling, simplify the airport’s network infrastructure, and further reduce power consumption.
“We have achieved Level 3+ [of Airport Carbon Accreditation],which represents carbon neutrality, by increasing the use of renewable hydropower and reducing emissions,” Booz says.“Technology modernisation is certainly part of the equation and helping us become more efficient and sustainable.”
To learn more about what Cisco is doing with airports around the globe visit Cisco for airports.
Managing winter operations at an airport is a big task that involves a huge joint effort between airport teams and their service partners. One of the UK’s leading service partners, Aero Mag, provides de-icing facilities at Heathrow and Manchester Airport, both of which are listed in the top twenty of Europe’s busiest airports, handling over 400,000 aircraft movements collectively throughout the year.
In winter, de-icing planes is essential for airline safety, and clear communication between airside teams and pilots is crucial. The pilot is consulted by ground-toair communication, confirming the decision on the required treatment. Following that, de-icing trucks, most of which are single-operator vehicles, move around the aircraft, applying the product that allows an aircraft to operate safely during harsh winter conditions. The removal of frost from an aircraft takes on average three to six minutes. Safety and speed are key to the success of this operation.
“We support a fail-safe service,and we can only do this if the teams and pilots can talk to each other,” said James Webb, Aero Mag Operations Manager, Heathrow Airport.“Good coverage of all areas of the airfield, having the service support and general reliability throughout is imperative to our procedures.”
Being connected is crucial for their business, Mick Field, Aero Mag General Manager added. “If information cannot be shared in real time it can affect many elements such as security issues and possibly dangerous scenarios,whilst siloes can build and create
inefficiencies.” He continued, “We were experiencing long outages with our aging radio communication system,and poor coverage.It was time to look for a new provider that could offer the support we needed. Radiocoms came highly recommended and was the best fit for Aero Mag.”
After an introductory meeting, Aero Mag was recommended DMR and airband radio communication solutions by Radiocoms for its critical communication requirements to support its airside operations at both Heathrow and later Manchester Airport.
Dependant on whether they are operating an open de-icing basket or a closed cabin, both vehicles needed to house a rugged, dependable device that offered full encryption for secure radio communication broadcasts. The demonstrations held on site highlighted the benefits the new two-way radio technology would deliver and how it could meet the requirements outlined by Aero Mag.
“We were looking for an easy-to-deploy,scalable system which could provide a proven site-wide coverage footprint.Further requirements included a high level of resilience and security,and the need for ongoing onsite engineering support and maintenance.”
Mick Field, Aero Mag General Manager
The team at Heathrow selected a mixture of Hytera full keypad PD785 hand portables and MD785 mobiles whilst the Manchester team now operates with Motorola DP4601e half keypad hand portables and DM4601e mobiles. In addition, ICOM airband radios provide a ground-to-air connection to the aircraft pilot for instantaneous communication and improvements on turnaround times. This also allows for constant communication between de-ice crews, the operations centre and the flight crew, ensuring zero time wastage and enhanced safety on every de-ice.
Dedicated talk groups and priority-level channels enable more efficient communications, both day-to-day and for faster detection and remediation of threats.
At the same time, text messaging and telephone interconnect provide additional functionality for the users. Heavy-duty headsets with PTT mics are also utilised; they are mounted to a safety harness for ease of operation whilst in an open basket.
Furthermore, by utilising the airport’s existing radio system managed by Radiocoms, there was no costly infrastructure to install, and the day-to-day voice and data system management issues were taken care of thanks to the remote infrastructure diagnostics system already in place.
As a new start-up, Manchester did not have anything to benchmark the system to; however, Heathrow has shared its satisfaction with the improved audio quality and coverage. As a result of their new two-way radio systems, both sites can share critical information around the clock so they can keep track of operations 24/7, giving them more time to do their jobs.
Finally, the company also has peace of mind, benefiting from Radiocoms onsite engineering Premier Service Level Agreements and the layers of back-up provided through the high-resiliency architecture of Manchester and Heathrow Airports’ centralised radio communications network. The many layers of redundancy ensure that no single failure can bring the system down.
The value for Aero Mag by simplifying the supply chain and consolidating support with a single provider has proven to be a success. “With Radiocoms it’s much more proactive.Acting fast to a technical issue is a necessity for us.They are fixing problems before we even realise they are there,and that’s really impressive.We didn’t have a back-up before,but now we know there’s always capacity to keep us operational.” Mick Field concluded.
Air traffic synchronisation solutions and advanced decision-support tools are contributing to a sustainable future for the aviation industry. Frank Köhne, member of Frequentis ATM Executive Board, explains how.
How is Frequentis contributing to a greener future within the aviation industry?
Frank Köhne: The aviation industry faces a significant challenge in meeting net zero targets by 2050, with aviation fuel being a major emissions contributor. Our high-performance traffic synchronisation solutions are designed to enhance air traffic management
(ATM) and airport operations and reduce emissions by optimising runway utilisation. By supplying air traffic controllers (ATCOs) with advanced decision-support tools, we enable more efficient management of flights, thus reducing the need for prolonged holding patterns and taxi times. These operational improvements directly translate to significant reductions in fuel burn and emissions – contributing to a greener future for aviation.
Could you provide an example of these solutions and how they provide benefits?
FK: Our Arrival Manager (AMAN) and Departure Manager (DMAN) are pivotal for enhanced flight efficiency. AMAN supports controllers by efficiently
streaming arrivals into Terminal Manoeuvring Areas (TMAs), reducing airborne stacking and enabling fuel-efficient operations. This approach extends to enroute controllers, optimising flights and speeds before descent, curbing inefficient flight profiles. Similarly, DMAN improves slot adherence and departure sequences, lessening holding and taxi times. Both solutions significantly contribute to reducing fuel burn and emissions. An example is our Integrated AMAN/ DMAN (IAD) solution, deploying in a ‘world first’ at Singapore Changi Airport, amplifying ATCO decisionmaking, maximising runway use and saving fuel.
Are there any noteworthy success stories related to these solutions?
FK: Absolutely. A notable success is the Extended AMAN (XMAN) deployment for the UK’s National Air Traffic Services (NATS) in 2014. This cross-border deployment for Heathrow Airport reported annual savings of 3,500 tonnes of fuel in 2017, £1.82 million in cost savings for its airline customers.
In 2021 XMAN was reported to be saving £7 million annually and reducing CO2 emissions by 40,000 tonnes. These numbers underscore the significant environmental and economic benefits of our solutions.
Which of your other solutions are contributing to greener aviation?
FK: The Demand Capacity Balancer (DCB), jointly developed with NATS, is an essential component of the Airports Operations Plan, enhancing predictability within the aviation ecosystem. It has been validated to accurately predict demand, capacity and performance metrics for both the short term, on the day of operations, and up to six months in
advance, empowering stakeholders to proactively manage resources and reduce potential bottlenecks. Predictability in flight operations is a key factor in reducing fuel consumption.
Additionally, our TowerPad solution consolidates various tower applications on to a single screen, automating routine tasks for ATCOs. By streamlining processes, it effectively helps to reduce taxi times and, in turn, environmental footprint. Its innovative routing and guidance service, known as ‘follow the greens’, employs red and green lights to guide taxiing aircraft, minimising fuel consumption and emissions whilst simplifying runway navigation.
FK: Our efforts are closely aligned here. The ICAO System Block Upgrades (ASBU) and the Single European Sky ATM Research (SESAR) programme emphasise the need for greener air traffic management. Frequentis’ high-performance traffic synchronisation solutions have emerged as significant contributors to these initiatives by enhancing decision-making support for ATCOs and enabling more efficient management of incoming and outgoing flights. Their purpose is to reduce fuel consumption and emissions, making these solutions integral to advancing the goals of both ICAO and SESAR.
Could you tell us about any other projects you are working on which contribute to reduced fuel consumption?
FK: We are actively researching innovative technologies to drive further advancements in ATM operations. Project SlotMachine, for instance, focuses on leveraging blockchain and multi-party computation technologies in order to create a privacy-preserving platform for flight slot swapping. Airlines will be able to swap flights with other airlines without fear of exposing private information, streamlining operations and reducing inefficiencies or lost slots, enhancing the overall predictability of flights for smoother operations. With more efficient slot swapping, airlines can optimise their schedules in advance, resulting in overall efficient use of airspace. Ultimately, fewer idling aircraft translate to lower CO2 emissions.
Your commitment to sustainability is clear. Can you touch upon Frequentis’ success and achievements in this area?
FK: Our AMAN deployment has a track record of success spanning over 20 years. Since its inception in 2001 for Swiss Air Navigation Service Provider (ANSP) Skyguide, it has saved over one million tons of CO2 emissions globally. It also won the CANSO Maverick Sustainability Award in 2021 at World ATM Congress in Madrid. Frequentis AMAN has been implemented for other major hubs including Hong Kong, Istanbul, London, Rome, Singapore and Toronto, demonstrating its ability to efficiently manage aircraft arrivals whilst offering sustainability and environmental benefits. In Norway, Oslo Airport was also named top performer for continuous decent operations (CDO) in Europe by EUROCONTROL in 2022 thanks to its CO2 reductions since implementing Frequentis AMAN to support the Point Merge System (PMS). PMS is an innovative sequencing technique to simplify and enhance arrival operations, now part of ICAO’s aviation system block upgrade and supporting CDO.
What last message would you like to convey to the aviation community and stakeholders?
FK: The aviation industry’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 is a critical step toward a sustainable future, and Frequentis’ strategic vision aligns with this ambition. But I would like to emphasise that the journey towards a greener future requires collective
action. By embracing technology, innovation and collaboration, we can drive meaningful progress in reducing emissions and building a more sustainable aviation ecosystem, emphasising environmental responsibility within this industry for future generations.
Frequentis’ safety-critical communication and information solutions leverage more than seventyfive years of cross-industry experience in civil aviation, defence, public safety and public transportation markets. Frequentis ATM ensures the safety of 95% of the world’s passengers and aircraft and helps ANSPs worldwide efficiently deliver safer and more secure capacity for airspace users.
Frank joined the aviation industry as an air traffic control engineer and continued his career at Lufthansa Operations and Traffic Control for the three Berlin airports. He joined Orthogon in Bremen in 1991, becoming Managing Director in 2009. With the Frequentis acquisition in 2021, Frank also became a member of the Frequentis OneATM Executive Board, driving the OneATM strategy.
www.frequentis.com
Vaask Offers Airports a State-of-the-Art Hygiene Solution
With air traffic surging to above prepandemic levels, airports have been working hard to implement effective hygiene measures that protect travellers.
With so many people moving through their facilities, the need for reliable and effective hand sanitiser dispensers is especially important for airports. But too often, sanitiser dispensers fall short. They break easily, are difficult to maintain and are messy and unattractive.
However, for a growing number of airports, Vaask® hand sanitising fixtures are providing a much-needed solution to the common frustrations experienced with temporary sanitiser dispensers.
Because they are subject to so much use and abuse, typical hand sanitiser dispensers often break and need to be replaced. It’s one reason the Houston Airport System decided to include Vaask as part of its airport standards for restrooms. With annual passenger traffic exceeding 50 million per year, Houston airport officials sought fixtures that could withstand heavy use.
Vaask’s all-metal construction and highly engineered internal components were designed to handle such high-volume situations. The five-year warranty that comes with each fixture provides further reassurance of Vaask’s longevity.
Many touchless hand sanitiser dispensers require batteries to operate, which are time-consuming for maintenance staff to constantly replace. Vaask fixtures run on AC power or Power over Ethernet (PoE), doing away with the need to replace or monitor units for dead batteries.
At Nashville International Airport (BNA), maintenance staff appreciate how the front panel LED lights signal when units are low on gel or empty. Now, one glance is all that’s needed to see which dispensers need servicing. The ease of maintenance was also a huge selling point for Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), where plans are underway to install 105 units throughout the airport.
Both airports plan to use Vaask’s online dashboard, which allows facilities managers to monitor all Vaask dispensers from one screen. The large, two-litre sanitiser tank also cuts down on the frequency of refills.
When hand sanitising dispensers misfire or drip, it can damage floors or create a slipping hazard. While dispenser drip trays can address this problem, staff at the Salt Lake City airport were frustrated that the trays from plastic dispensers were often being pulled off and misused.
After learning how Vaask’s catch trays are bolted into place, airport staff were intrigued. They decided to purchase the fixture for the airport terminal after observing Vaask’s other features, such as how the fixture’s pump retracts and reverses flow if someone abruptly pulls their hand away, eliminating drips and misfires.
Nashville airport staff discovered Vaask while looking for a recessed dispenser and appreciated how easy it is to install. Tired of stand dispensers getting in the way, or constantly being moved, Nashville’s recessed Vaask fixtures keep floors and walkways clear for passengers and their luggage.
With nearly $1 billion in federal funds being allocated for airport improvements, renovation and expansion plans have taken off across the US. More than ever, terminals are being transformed into beautifully designed spaces by incorporating stunning artwork, creative architectural details and attractive fixtures. Placing cheap, unattractive plastic sanitiser dispensers into these spaces completely detracts from the upgraded aesthetics.
Lafayette Regional Airport (LFT) found itself in this situation after completing a terminal expansion that added new, state-of-the-art equipment and a stunning rotunda. It selected Vaask’s brushed chrome Aviator model for the new terminal because the fixtures perfectly match the facility’s modern design.
Maintaining high standards for hygiene will always need to be a priority for the travel industry, and especially for airports. Vaask is helping airports be at the forefront of efforts to revolutionise how hand sanitiser is provided, creating cleaner and safer spaces for travellers.
Want to see how it works? Schedule a product demo.
Whenit comes to taking excellent care of your crew during layovers, Accommodations Plus International (API) has consistently stood as the premier provider that sets new standards.
With a rich legacy spanning over 40 years, API has pioneered the transformation of crew accommodations, elevating layovers from mere convenience to extraordinary experiences. At the heart of our approach lies a commitment to excellence, underpinned by innovative technology, ensuring that
every layover becomes an uneventful and rewarding journey for your crew members.
At API, our unwavering mission is clear: to prioritise the crew member journey above all else. We recognise the pivotal role of a well-rested and content crew in ensuring seamless airline operations. To this end, we combine top-tier service with cutting-edge technology, crafting experiences that not only meet but exceed crew expectations. Our approach is simple yet effective: while the airline remains our client, the crew member becomes our valued customer. Every facet of our service revolves around crafting exceptional
layover experiences, from ensuring comfortable accommodations to efficient ground transportation. Our attention to detail ensures that your crew members don’t just depart satisfied but with a sense of delight.
API’s distinguished track record speaks volumes. With over four decades of experience, we’ve solidified our position as a global leader in crew accommodations. Our integrated platform, supported by a team of over 500 seasoned professionals, meticulously oversees lodging and ground transportation for over 40,000 individuals across 100+ airlines worldwide, every day.
This expansive reach speaks not only to our dedication to excellence but also to the trust our clients have consistently placed in us. Our cutting-edge systems seamlessly automate the complex task of booking millions of hotel rooms each year, epitomising our efficiency and reliability.
Our comprehensive platform, complemented by mobile solutions and data analytics, simplifies the intricate
process of crew accommodations. This empowers you to entrust the management of layovers to us, freeing up precious time to focus on other critical airline operations.
Our proprietary crew management platform, ACES, lies at the core of our operations. ACES ensures that every facet of the crew member journey is automated, leaving no room for errors. From booking accommodations to co-ordinating ground transportation, ACES ensures a seamlessly predictable experience for your crew members.
While our commitment to delivering exceptional layover experiences remains steadfast, we are experts in understanding the financial implications of crew accommodations. This commitment aligns with our promise to deliver cost savings for our clients. Our team of dedicated account managers and destination sourcing experts meticulously safeguards your airline’s financial interests. We ensure that your crew members luxuriate in top-notch accommodations while keeping costs within your control.
API’s pioneering legacy in crew accommodation management is a source of immense pride for us. Over four decades, we’ve set industry benchmarks, expanded horizons and redefined the layover experience. Our unwavering dedication to our mission and clients has propelled our growth, driving us to continuously innovate and adapt to the evolving travel landscape.
In a world that values efficiency, excellence and costeffectiveness, API stands as the epitome of unparalleled
service and technology-driven solutions. Welcome to a world where crew members are cherished customers, where layovers transcend mere stops, and where API stands as your steadfast partner in crafting a journey that marries excellence with seamlessness.
In the realm of crew and accommodations, API has always been a provider synonymous with excellence, innovation, and customer-centricity. When it comes to crew accommodations, API isn’t just a choice; it’s the definitive choice, ensuring exceptional experiences and unmatched savings for all stakeholders involved.
Contact
w: www.apiglobalsolutions.com
t: +1-516-307-3000
e: info@apiglobalsolutions.com
In the dynamic world of airport operations, addressing employee parking challenges emerges as an imperative.
Airports, the bustling centers of activity that they are, rely heavily on the impeccable organization of their workforce With an average of 40,000 employees staffing a typical airport hub, the challenges of managing their needs, especially in terms of parking, become increasingly pronounced. The ground crew’s daily routines, including shifts that often require commuting by car, have given rise to a complex issue –high employee parking demands.
To maintain the efficient functioning of airport
operations, airport management must allocate a considerable portion of their real estate to employee parking. But not just that. The proximity of these parking spaces to the terminals where employees operate is a vital factor that directly influences the airport’s overall operational efficiency.
What’s more, the allocation of parking spaces for employees comes at a cost – and it’s not just the square footage of real estate. The more parking spaces reserved for employees, the fewer spaces available for revenue-generating opportunities like charging visitors for parking.
To effectively address the diversity of effects posed by employee parking challenges, airport management should consider solutions that are innovative, yet simple.
KINTO Join is a sustainable commuting platform that takes an innovative approach to resolving employee parking challenges. By allowing airports to incentivise commuters to use alternatives to driving, airports can alleviate employee parking pressures while promoting sustainable practices and enhancing overall operational efficiency.
The effects of carpooling on reduced parking pressures are self-evident – as the number of ride-sharing participants increases, the requirement for parking spaces diminishes correspondingly. The pivotal challenge, however, lies in motivating a larger number of individuals to embrace these alternatives. This is where the unique proposition of KINTO Join comes into play.
KINTO Join transcends conventional carpooling apps, offering a patented verification technology that allows airports to seamlessly incentivise carpoolers. These incentives extend beyond mere gift vouchers
and company car privileges. To strike a dual impact, choosing to reward carpoolers with exclusive premium parking spots, conveniently situated near their workplaces, could be the strategic choice.
KINTO Join’s ground-breaking technology verifies the authenticity of shared rides, promptly rewarding participants upon arrival. The integration potential with an airport’s parking system ensures complete automation. As employees approach their workplace, they are granted a dedicated parking spot through an automated ticketing process. This streamlines the process, eliminating congestion and ensuring everyone arrives at their posts punctually.
KINTO Join’s capabilities exceed traditional carpooling by validating walking and cycling journeys as well. This extension empowers airports to reward individuals who embrace sustainable travel methods, further reducing parking pressures and emissions.
An additional advantage lies in KINTO Join’s ability to quantify GHG emission savings from carpooling, walking and cycling journeys. The platform’s dedicated Admin Panel offers real-time monitoring of sustainable commutes, delivering verified, up-to-date insights into environmental savings.
Moreover, KINTO Join’s advanced reporting features simplify ESG reporting for airports, streamlining the documentation of their environmental contributions.
Through incentivised carpooling, seamless verification, and simplified ESG reporting, KINTO Join offers a streamlined path to optimised parking utilisation, operational efficiency, and environmental responsibility. Join us in redefining your airport’s experience – contact us today to embrace a future where innovation and practicality converge seamlessly.
As a member of Toyota’s Mobility family, KINTO Join Mobility Business Solutions (legal name KINTO Join Ltd) helps companies design smarter, greener and more inclusive transportation systems to effectively respond to the changing demands of their employees’ commuting preferences.
We effectively combine research, tech and service capabilities to deliver mobility solutions that are simple to use, kind to the environment and inspired by people’s day-to-day mobility challenges.
Our patented technology, now recognised in both the US and Europe, represents a breakthrough in accurately verifying shared journeys and calculating the impressive environmental effects of ridesharing, walking and cycling.
For more information about KINTO Join please visit our website www.kintojoin.io.
Jewers Doors p.40
World Class Aircraft Hangar Doors
Pollite p.42
Elevating Aviation Safety through Frangible Approach Poles, Windsocks and CCTV Surveillance Masts
317090 (UK) 9002 (UAE)
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In the dynamic landscape of aviation safety, the significance of frangible approach poles cannot be overstated.
As per the guidelines stipulated by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the implementation of advanced safety measures is imperative for safeguarding aircraft, personnel and infrastructure during critical phases of flight, particularly during approach and landing procedures.
Pollite, a reputable name in aviation safety solutions, offers state-of-the-art frangible approach poles that
align seamlessly with ICAO and FAA standards. These poles are meticulously engineered and Intertekcertified, demonstrating their compliance with stringent safety requirements. With a proven track record and recognition for quality assurance through ISO 9001 certification, Pollite frangible approach poles offer several benefits to the airline industry.
Enhanced safety: the frangible design of Pollite approach poles ensures they crumble upon impact, minimising the risk of damage to aircraft and reducing the potential for injuries. This safety measure aligns with ICAO’s Aerodrome Design Manual, Part 6, which emphasises aircraft-structure compatibility.
Minimal disruption: the swift and controlled breakage of Pollite approach poles diminishes the extent of damage in the event of a collision. This significantly reduces downtime for runway operations, contributing to enhanced airport efficiency and minimising economic losses.
Regulatory compliance: Pollite frangible approach poles adhere to ICAO and FAA standards, establishing a foundation of regulatory compliance. This not only enhances an airline’s safety profile but also bolsters its reputation for adhering to international aviation guidelines.
Maintaining precise situational awareness is paramount in the aviation industry, particularly concerning wind conditions during takeoff, landing and ground operations. Pollite’s frangible windsocks stand as a testament to the commitment towards upholding aviation safety standards set forth by ICAO, FAA and Intertek, further substantiated by the ISO 9001 certification.
Accurate wind indications: Pollite frangible windsocks provide clear and accurate wind direction and speed indications to flight crews, aiding in informed decision-making during critical flight phases. This aligns with ICAO’s Annex 14, ensuring proper aerodrome design and operational safety.
Enhanced durability: built to withstand challenging environmental conditions, Pollite frangible windsocks offer exceptional durability, reducing maintenance requirements and associated costs. Their robust design meets the demands of varying climates and contributes to the overall reliability of aviation operations.
Frangibility for safety: these windsocks, designed to be frangible, enhance safety by
minimising the potential for damage to aircraft and personnel in the event of a collision. FAA’s Advisory Circular 150/5345-27 establishes frangibility as a key aspect of aviation safety infrastructure.
In an era marked by heightened security concerns, the aviation industry demands cutting-edge solutions to fortify its infrastructure against potential threats. Pollite’s CCTV surveillance and communications masts present a compelling solution that aligns seamlessly with ICAO, FAA and Intertek standards, with quality assurance underpinned by ISO 9001 certification. Benefits
Comprehensive surveillance: Pollite’s masts support advanced CCTV surveillance systems, enabling
comprehensive monitoring of critical airport areas. This aligns with ICAO’s recommendations for enhancing airport security and situational awareness.
Robust communications: the masts facilitate effective communication networks vital for smooth air traffic control and ground operations. This is in line with ICAO’s emphasis on reliable communication systems, as detailed in Annex 10.
Frangible design: Pollite’s approach to frangibility in mast design ensures that potential collisions pose minimal risk to aircraft and personnel. This safety feature echoes FAA’s emphasis on safeguarding aviation assets through compliant infrastructure.
Pollite’s commitment to aligning its products with ICAO, FAA, Intertek certification and ISO 9001 standards underscores its dedication to enhancing safety, security and operational efficiency within the airline industry. The tangible benefits provided by Pollite’s frangible approach poles, windsocks and CCTV surveillance masts serve as testaments to its role in elevating aviation safety and infrastructure standards.
For more information contact:
Andrew De-Gol International Sales & Business Development Managere: andrew.degol@pollite.com
t: +44 (0) 1325 433 +44 (0) 7702 334 642
p: Grindon Way, Newton Aycliffe, DL5 6SH, United Kingdom
w: www.pollite.com
