Airport Industry-News eMagazine 2024

Letter from the Editor

Dear Readers,

In December 2022 the UK government announced a deadline for all major UK airports to switch to CT scanning technology at security. Find out about the benefits of this technology and how the rollout has been progressing in Charting the Course of CT Scanners in UK Airport Security by Tiana May.

Now that the main summer season is upon us, we also hear from Stephanie Wear, VP Aviation Development at London Gatwick about how the airport has been adding more destinations and airlines, most notably Singapore Airlines, to its books (p. 14).

Orlando International Airport has also been preparing for an increase in passenger numbers (p. 17) – not only because of an increase in the number of visitors to Florida but also because the population of the Sunshine State has been undergoing a rapid expansion, especially since 2020. Developments at the airport include its partnership with Brightline, making it the first US airport to be

accessible via high-speed intercity rail. It is also expanding its newly opened Terminal C, funded in part by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Teesside Airport in Northern England is a regional airport that is part of the Teesside Freeport and home to a fast-growing freight facility. Read about the airport’s new £200 million business park on p. 20.

In the interview with Ruth Nixon (p. 30), Aviation and Services Account Manager at Radiocoms Systems Ltd, you can read about how communications technologies are transforming health and safety practices in the aviation industry.

KINTO Join and Accommodations Plus International both support aviation industry employees. KINTO Join aims to streamline employee commutes, while API prides itself on delivering high-quality layovers.

If you would like our airport news straight to your inbox, make sure you’re subscribed to us here. If you want to be featured on our site or in our e-magazine, please email Andrew Lush at or call +44 7432 725001.

We hope you enjoy this issue. As always, we welcome your feedback and insights, which you can send to editorial@a2bglobalmedia.com

Josephine Cordero Sapién, editor-in-chief

ANDREW LUSH Director al@a2bglobalmedia.com

JOSEPHINE CORDERO SAPIÉN Editor-in-chief jcs@a2bglobalmedia.com

NICOLA BROWN Head of Sales nb@a2bglobalmedia.com

ZOE GRIFFEY Head of Design zg@a2bglobalmedia.com

TIANA MAY Principal Journalist tm@a2bglobalmedia.com

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Features

Charting the Course of CT Scanners in UK Airport Security

In December 2022, the UK government gave major UK airports a deadline of switching to CT scanners by June 2024. Tiana May looks at the benefits of this technology and how the rollout has progressed.

Upcoming Events

p.17

p.20

Issue One 2024 CONTENTS

London Gatwick Gears Up for Bumper Summer Peak with More New Airlines and Destinations

Orlando International Airport Prepares for the Projected Rise in Traveller Numbers

Teesside Airport’s £200 Million Business Park

Supplier News

API Global Solutions: Elevating Layovers

Kinto Join: The Airport Ecosystem – Taking Flight with a Streamlined Employee Commute

Radiocoms: Creating a Safe Connection Airside and Landside

Charting the Course of CT Scanners in UK Airport Security

By Tiana May, Principal Journalist

To enhance security and streamline passenger processing, airports across the globe are implementing advanced computed tomography (CT) scanning technology at security checkpoints. In December 2022, the UK government set a deadline for all major UK airports to transition to this technology by June 2024. However, several major airports have now announced that they will be unable to meet the deadline and have been granted extensions.

Over the years, airport security measures have evolved in response to emerging threats and technological advancements. The standard x-ray machines commonly used for carry-on luggage screening provide an

effective but time-consuming method for ensuring safety. During busy periods, this can lead to delays and inconvenience for travellers.

In contrast, CT scanning technology offers a more comprehensive and efficient approach, enabling authorities to detect prohibited items with greater accuracy and speed while imposing less inconvenience on passengers.

CT Scanning Technology

Computed tomography, commonly known as CT scanning, is a sophisticated imaging technique that

London Gatwick Airport

uses x-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images of objects. It generates highly detailed 3D images of carry-on luggage and other items, allowing security personnel to inspect them more thoroughly.

Unlike conventional x-ray machines, which produce 2D images, CT scanners provide a more detailed view of the contents of bags. This enables operators to identify potential threats with greater precision, including explosives, weapons and other dangerous materials while minimising false alarms and unnecessary bag checks.

What’s more, their rollout removes requirements for passengers to have to take large electronic items and liquids from their cabin baggage when passing through security. In the UK, the transition to CT scanners will also see the 100ml liquid limit in hand luggage extended to 2 litres.

UK Rollout

In 2017, London Heathrow (LHR) became the first UK airport to initiate a trial programme for CT scanners in collaboration with the Department for Transport (DfT). Following the government’s mandate for UK airports to transition fully to this technology, Teesside International Airport (MME) became the first UK airport to complete this switch, operating with two CT scanners from January 2023. In April 2023, London City Airport (LCY) became

the first major UK airport to follow suit. One year on from this transition, LCY recently reported a 50 percent reduction in average passenger queue times at security thanks to the streamlined process.

However, several larger UK airports are not on track to complete this transition in time for the June 2024 mandate. This includes London Heathrow, London Gatwick (LGW), London Stansted (STN), East Midlands (EMA) and Manchester (MAN) airports.

These delays are partly attributed to global supply chain issues following the pandemic. Meanwhile, the new equipment also presented a logistical challenge for some busy airports. As a result, airports have had to undertake significant construction work or build new screening halls to accommodate the equipment, which is larger and heavier than the scanners that are being replaced. For example, Manchester Airport is constructing an additional security hall to accommodate the new technology as part of its Terminal 2 expansion programme

In consideration of these challenges, select UK airports have been granted extensions for up to a year on a case-by-case basis. Airports that fail to meet the extended deadlines will face serious financial penalties.

Despite this set back, the UK remains at the forefront of the transition, with no other European country matching the scope and scale of its rollout. Be this as it may, with airports now introducing the technology at differing rates, passengers are being advised to check specific security requirements at their airport before travelling.

To read more from our Principal Journalist, Tiana May visit airportindustry-news.com

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London Gatwick p.14

London Gatwick Gears Up for Bumper Summer Peak with More New Airlines and Destinations

Orlando International p.17

Orlando International Airport Prepares for the Projected Rise in Traveller Numbers

Teesside International p.20

Teesside Airport’s £200 Million Business Park

London Gatwick Gears Up for Bumper Summer Peak with More New Airlines and Destinations

By Stephanie Wear, VP Aviation Development, London Gatwick

Summer season is in full-swing at London Gatwick – even if, as I write this, the weather doesn’t appear to have received the memo!

The UK’s topsy-turvy climate is just one factor keeping the demand to jet off on holiday sky high. Last year at London Gatwick, we welcomed more than 40 million passengers. And now our summer season has kickedoff, we will be offering passengers across London and the South East the choice of more than 220 destinations, from nearly 60 airlines.

And demand for slots at London Gatwick shows no

signs of abating. In the last month alone, we have welcomed the return of WestJet, with four weekly flights to Halifax and three weekly flights to St John’s in Canada, while Norwegian has added to its fantastic short-haul offer with four services per week to Gothenburg. British Airways now also flies four times weekly to Jersey, and easyJet began its twice-weekly operation to Skiathos just a few days ago.

And we’re gearing up to welcome more new airlines and routes over coming weeks too. Alongside new carriers such as ITA Airways, Atlantic Airways and Azores Airlines, existing airlines will be adding new destinations, including Air China to Beijing, China Southern to Guangzhou and in September, Norse to Las Vegas.

Singapore Arrival Slings London

Gatwick into the Big League

Towards the end of last year, we announced the very exciting news that Singapore Airlines will be coming to London Gatwick from 22 June, flying five times per week to Changi Airport. This is a huge coup and showcases the increasing demand for slots at the airport, from some of the world’s most recognised and respected carriers.

Singapore Airlines is a hugely important new partnership for us at London Gatwick – and for people and businesses across our catchment in London and the South East.

The nation’s flag carrier, with its hub located at Changi Airport, is among the world’s most renowned carriers – earning the title of World’s Best Airline at the 2023 Skytrax awards – and will be the first carrier flying east from London Gatwick offering a premium economy cabin.

But beyond that, the new route to Singapore opens up a wealth of connections, not only to the glorious destination itself, but more widely across southeast Asia, Australia and New Zealand, alongside inbound tourists to the region.

The Increasing Pull of London Gatwick

The desire of such a big player in the long-haul industry to come to London Gatwick further demonstrates the increasing pull of the airport and what we have to offer.

We often talk about the recent upgrades to our rail station and the fantastic connections into central London in under 30 minutes, as well as our terminal refurbishment project to give our departure lounge a new look and feel, focusing on ease, efficiency and experience for passengers. Another huge advantage is the size and strength of our catchment area. There are more than 17 million people who live within 90 minutes of London Gatwick – producing over 34 million passenger journeys a year.

We also stress our exciting growth plans as we work to bring our Northern Runway into routine use. London Gatwick is the only airport in the constrained London market with credible growth plans, deliverable before the end of this decade. We are currently the single busiest runway in the world and with our Northern Runway project, could cater for 75 million passengers per year and accommodate a significant number of additional long-haul services.

The Work Behind the Scenes

Such partnerships, however, don’t come about overnight and take a lot of work behind the scenes for months – even years – before coming to fruition. We need to identify key carriers for our market, have initial conversations, understand cultural requirements and expectations, appreciate and work with the needs and capacity of the airport and our operations, have more conversations – and this is all before we’re even close to signing on the dotted line.

In the past 15 months alone, London Gatwick has welcomed new airlines including Air India, Air China, China Eastern, China Southern, Saudia, Delta, Ethiopian Airlines, Air Mauritius and Air Peace. That’s a lot of travelling, pitching, conversing and researching!

And We’re Not Done Yet...

A key part of our strategy is to continue our growth in markets across Asia and the USA in particular. As you can see, we are certainly not standing still, and we will continue in earnest to have exciting conversations with a range of new and existing airlines to see where the rest of 2024 and beyond can take us – and in turn, where we at London Gatwick can take you.

Watch this space!

Stephanie Wear VP Aviation Development, London Gatwick

Orlando International Airport Prepares for the Projected Rise in Traveller Numbers

The population of Florida is in the midst of a rapid expansion, particularly since 2020, as the state leads the nation with some of the fastest-growing metro areas.

In fact, according to U.S. Census Bureau data, the population of Florida has increased by more than 1 million residents between April 2020 and July 2023. Central Florida population growth is clearly evident in the increased passenger traffic Orlando International Airport (MCO) is experiencing, as there are now, on average, more than 21,000 more people flying in and out of MCO every day than there were in 2019.

In recognition of the growing demand for airport access and other challenges, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which operates and manages Orlando International and Orlando Executive airports, has several projects in the works that will help accommodate growth and address an expected increase in passenger traffic.

“Through careful planning,innovation and technology, Orlando International Airport will be able to provide the best traveller experience for our growing passenger volume now and into the future,” said Kevin Thibault, Chief Executive Officer of GOAA. “We will continue to embrace new ideas and make investments while not departing from our core value of excellent customer service.”

These investments are critical and wide-ranging. Connectivity, customer convenience and creativity will play large roles in ensuring Orlando International provides an exceptional passenger experience into the future.

The blueprint for Orlando International’s future can be seen in its newly implemented 10-year Strategic Plan, which covers strategic priorities built on four pillars: People, Connection, Community and Innovation.

Connection as a strategic priority is particularly focused on the projected rise in travellers because

Terminal C Gates Expansion Rendering

the goal seeks to inspire and elevate the quantity and quality of networks related to transportation modes. This means GOAA will seek to increase air, rail and ground travel mode options, with the ultimate goal of fulfilling its vision to become the global leader in the evolution of mobility.

Part of that vision already is being realised through a partnership with Brightline, a high-speed rail passenger service. It made its debut in September 2023, making MCO the first U.S. airport to offer high-speed intercity passenger rail service. The arrival of Brightline portends a future where the airport has different local and regional rail options available to the travelling public. Indeed, MCO’s train station has room for light rail and commuter rail expansions in the future. Additionally, Brightline seeks to make its own expansions with planned stops in Tampa, Florida’s Space Coast in Cocoa, and the Treasure Coast in Stuart.

Furthering connection is the expansion of the new Terminal C complex. Terminal C, which opened in 2022 with 15 gates capable of accommodating up to 20 aircraft, had two key projects deferred during construction due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Those projects are now under way, in part, through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) funding. One of those projects includes gates 250-253 of Terminal C, which will accommodate up to 8 narrow-body equivalent positions. The other project is a Pedestrian Bridge, an elevated, enclosed and air-conditioned pedestrian walkway approximately 450 feet in

length. The walkway will connect Terminal C and the train station, with access to Brightline and the A & B Terminals.

The bridge will also include a rental car lobby area. Substantial completion of the Pedestrian Bridge is expected in fall 2024 and the additional gates are expected to be operational in winter 2025. Accompanying airfield projects, including ramp, taxiway and remote parking, are scheduled for substantial completion by March 2026.

These projects will improve connections, but other initiatives are geared strictly toward customer convenience. MCO is preparing to reimagine its concession offerings in a new Concession Master Plan, designed to meet increased scrutiny by foodie passengers. In the plan, GOAA has taken a holistic approach to curate offerings across a wide variety of shopping and dining experiences. Healthier food options will be offered, as well as a selection of local, regional and national brands, offering dining experiences that uniquely reflect the Orlando area. Additionally, the plan determines to repurpose some retail areas into spaces where passengers can play games or enjoy museum exhibits, for example. The additions will increase passenger engagement and will also give the passenger a sense of place, helping passengers mark their arrival to Orlando.

Another proposed passenger convenience is a consolidated rental car facility, which will make

Concession Master Plan Concept

“Through careful planning,innovation and technology, Orlando International Airport will be able to provide the best traveller experience for our growing passenger volume now and into the future.”

Kevin Thibault, Chief Executive Officer of GOAA

renting a vehicle more efficient and passenger friendly. Currently, rental cars are available for pickup in the airport’s three terminals; however, GOAA is making plans to consolidate all rental cars at one convenient site, with connection to the terminals via an automated people mover (APM). A long-term project expected to open by 2030, when complete, this facility will liberate 5,000 parking spaces for passengers and provide more space for transportation network companies (rideshares) to operate.

A refurbishment of two original airsides, constructed nearly 40 years ago, is in the planning stages with multiple concepts under consideration. This refreshing improvement should be aesthetically pleasing and welcoming to passengers. Early concepts include combining Airsides 1 & 3, and adding APM stations, ramp level bag screening, and a new bag sortation facility. Concepts also include plans to add a third wing to Airside 2. This, along with offering new concierge services, should vastly enhance the passenger journey.

Like most airports, Orlando International continuously looks at creative ways to generate revenue and to address future air travel. There are two primary efforts taking shape: increasing cargo and preparing for vertiports.

Currently, Orlando International is working to increase cargo operations because new opportunities for cargo could boost revenue. As the fourth-largest airport in the U.S. by landmass, the airport offers room for expansion and growth and provides easy access to cargo areas from interstates and highways. MCO is not only the airport’s IATA code, but it is also an acronym for More Cargo Opportunities.

The burgeoning vertiport industry will also be instrumental in helping to prepare for future travellers. Orlando International is developing a network of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft

and vertiport facilities that will provide residents and visitors access to a rapid and flexible mode of local transportation.

During the past several years, GOAA has collaborated with local, state and federal partners, including the Federal Aviation Administration, as well as numerous industry manufacturers and operators, on how to integrate the technology that will be needed at airports to make advanced air mobility (AAM) successful.

AAM could also serve as a platform for medical transportation, emergency services, law enforcement and disaster relief. According to industry experts, the integration of AAM into today’s National Airspace System has the potential to reduce carbon emissions, reduce noise impacts, create new jobs, provide air service to underserved communities and create opportunities for new and diversified revenue streams for airports. Future plans include integrating AAM operations into the multimodal environment of MCO.

All of these projects and initiatives will accommodate future passenger growth and help the airport meet the challenge of providing a premium travel experience. Through connectivity, customer conveniences and creativity, Orlando International Airport will continue to offer exceptional passenger experiences and realise its ultimate vision to become the global leader in the evolution of mobility.

orlandoairports.net Airside Reconstruction Concept

Teesside Airport’s £200 Million Business Park

InNorthern England, major projects are being delivered at Teesside International Airport during an exciting and dynamic phase for the airport’s development.

The regional airport is a key part of the Teesside Freeport, home to a burgeoning freight facility and developing its own business park on its southern side.

Brought back into public hands in 2019, Teesside Airport has seen investment in its land and assets to create the £200 million Business Park South on 2.8 million sq ft of land south of the runway.

This has opened up Grade A industrial development opportunities for sectors including aviation, logistics, manufacturing, life sciences, laboratory, green energy and data storage.These all benefit from airside access if required – and from the advantages of being based within the Teesside Freeport, where customs benefits can be reaped.

Companies already taking advantage of the wider airport site include FedEx, Willis and Draken. The airport also recently welcomed global aircraft painting firm Airbourne Colours, with Teesside International developing 27,000 sq ft hangar to help it deliver work for airlines such as EasyJet, Jet2, Loganair, TUI and others.

CGI of how the developed Business Park North and South will look

“We now have a full range of freight handling services as an approved Regulated Agent,and both Business Park North and Business Park South are already attracting significant interest,” said Phil Forster, Managing Director of Teesside International Airport. “We’re going to have a lot of exciting announcements in the coming months.”

Linked by the A1(M) and A66 nearby, and the East Coast Main Line in Darlington, the Airport Business Park is looking to take advantage of its road and rail links as well as its air connections.

A £20 million redevelopment of the Airport Station was approved in January with money from the Tees Valley Combined Authority – with consideration for how passengers and workers get to the airport terminal and key business park job sites.

A newly built mile-long road to Business Park South from the A67 was also opened earlier this year, named Mynarski Way after Canadian air gunner Andrew Mynarski, who flew from Teesside Airport in the Second World War.

The Business Park South developments will cover 270 acres and create up to 4,400 jobs when fully operational. Four units covering 130,000 sq ft are being created in the first phase of the development.

The first 25,000 sq ft unit has now been built and detailed discussions are progressing with a number of interested parties.

Meanwhile, Business Park North is home to 300,000 sq ft of developments with more than 40 existing occupiers from a range of industries.

A state-of-the-art Jet Centre and Aviation Village led by Willis Aviation has planning approval on a 49-acre stretch of land west of the main terminal building for hangars to provide aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) and painting operations, as well as a fixed base operation (FBO) building for business aviation.

March saw FedEx, the world’s largest transportation company, sign a five-year deal for an airfreight

Progress at Business Park South

“We now have a full range of freight handling services as an approved Regulated Agent,and both Business Park North and Business Park South are already attracting significant interest.”

Phil Forster, Managing Director of Teesside International Airport

handling facility to meet growing demand – with eight additional inbound and outbound flights a week.

“When it comes to cargo,we’re slap bang in the middle of Britain and offer a great gateway to the North of England,” said Phil.

“We’re constantly in a productive dialogue with airlines, operators and companies to talk up Teesside Airport and the unique opportunities we have at the business park.

“They’ll continue to be our targets and 2024 promises to be a great year.”

In addition to its cargo growth, Teesside was named UK and Irish Airport of the Year at the TTG Travel Industry Awards last year after winning recognition for

its growth in flights and delivering a great passenger experience.

Last year, the airport became the first in the UK to scrap the 100ml liquid restrictions at security thanks to scanner upgrades. It also became the first in the UK to offer direct lounge to aircraft boarding in April.

For further information on development opportunities and available property at Teesside International Airport, contact commercial agents Aviation Real Estate Advisers, Naylors Gavin Black, or Colliers. Visit teessideinternational.com to find out more.

Phil Forster Managing Director, Teeside International Airport

Join p.26 The Airport Ecosystem: Taking Flight with a Streamlined Employee Commute

API Global Solutions

Elevating Layovers

When it 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 coordinating 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 safeguard 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 us today to learn more about our technology solutions and how we can elevate your crew accommodations to the next level.

To find out more about API Global Solutions, visit www.apiglobalsolutions.com

KINTO Join

The Airport Ecosystem: Taking Flight with a Streamlined Employee Commute

Imagine an airport bustling with energy, not just from passengers jetting off but from a workforce that arrives feeling energised and ready to take on the day. This dream can become a reality by focusing on an oftenforgotten part of the airport experience: how employees get to work.

The Power of a Commuter App

Of course, getting everyone on board with a new commuting programme can be a challenge. That's where the user-friendly app comes in. Employees get a handy app to plan their commutes, while employers get a dashboard to track progress. This streamlined approach is key to making the program successful in an airport environment where everything needs to run smoothly.

Beyond the Commute: A Sustainable Ecosystem Takes Shape

Believe it or not, a well-run employee commute programme has benefits that go way beyond just getting people to their desks. Happy, healthy employees lead to a smoother-running airport for everyone. Plus, a more sustainable environment!

Traffic jams around the airport? Reduced when more people ditch their cars for greener options. Parking lots overflowing? With fewer cars, that valuable space could be used for new shops or passenger amenities.

But the good stuff doesn't stop there. Employees save money too, especially these days with everything costing more. Think about it – commute costs are a big reason people switch jobs, often looking for something closer to home. With a great commuting app, you can put some serious cash back in their pockets. Happy employees are more likely to stick around, which builds a strong reputation for your airport.

Reliable Data? Consider It Done.

Imagine a monthly report bursting with insights to help airport management make smart decisions. But wait, there's more! To get the most accurate picture, KINTO starts with a quick survey before anyone uses the app. This ‘before and after’ approach lets us see exactly how much progress we're making and where we can improve. Plus, each month, employees get a personalised report showing their CO2 and NOX savings – a cool way to see their environmental impact.

A Glimpse into the Future: Soaring High with Innovation

The future of airport commutes is bright! Imagine all that extra parking space being used for something awesome, like premium parking for travellers. Carpooling could even mean some employees don't need to own a car at all!

By embracing these innovations, airports can create a win-win situation for everyone. Happy, healthy employees, a thriving airport environment and a sustainable future. The commute becomes a positive

experience, setting the stage for a productive and fulfilling day for everyone involved.

Unlocking Potential: The Hidden Benefits of Employee Commuting Initiatives

Employee commuting initiatives are more than just a way to get from point A to point B. They represent a fundamental shift in how we approach transportation and sustainability in the workplace.

At their core, these initiatives are about empowering employees to make environmentally conscious choices that benefit both themselves and the broader community. By providing tools and resources to support alternative transportation methods, such as carpooling, airports can reduce their carbon footprint and alleviate traffic congestion in surrounding areas.

Moreover, employee commuting initiatives have the potential to enhance employee satisfaction and wellbeing. A stress-free commute not only improves morale but also increases productivity and engagement levels among staff. Furthermore, these initiatives can foster a sense of community and collaboration among

employees. Carpooling to work encourages social interaction and teamwork, strengthening relationships within the workforce and promoting a positive organisational culture.

From a financial perspective, investing in employee commuting initiatives can yield significant cost savings for airports. By reducing the demand for parking spaces and associated infrastructure, airports can allocate resources more efficiently and invest in other critical areas of operation.

In conclusion, employee commuting initiatives are a win-win solution for airports seeking to enhance sustainability, employee satisfaction, and operational efficiency. By prioritising the needs of their workforce and embracing innovative transportation solutions, airports can pave the way for a brighter, greener future.

Click here to find out more about KINTO Join Mobility Business Solutions.

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Radiocoms Creating a Safe Connection Airside and Landside

In today’s fast-paced aviation industry, ensuring the health and safety of employees is paramount; visibility, insight and control are of top priority.

Ruth Nixon, Aviation and Services Account Manager at Radiocoms Systems Ltd, sheds light on how communications technologies are revolutionising health and safety practices within the aviation industry.

Q: How do communication systems help to support the health and safety risks faced by the aviation sector?

Ruth Nixon: Working in the aviation industry you have a profound responsibility with every decision you make; it could impact thousands of people at one time – decisions that are carefully planned and orchestrated to the reactionary being made in response to an unforeseen event or emergency. Despite facing unique challenges and pressures, both situations require delivery of clear communication for successful resolution.

For example, when it comes to PRM services, a partnership between the service provider, the airline, airport and ground handling is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of passengers with disabilities. In 2022 3.45 million passengers received assistance at UK airports If there is a breakdown in communication, a passenger with reduced mobility may not receive the assistance they require to navigate the plane or airport safely, putting that passenger at risk.

Today there are options and considerations – digital mobile radio (DMR), TETRA and/or PTT-over-broadband (BBPTT) or LTE, hybrid, telematics, standalone or connected? – you need a base for making your decisions.

In partnership with our customers Radiocoms works through a process that creates a roadmap for now and in the future. One size definitely doesn't fit all, and awareness is key. By integrating various technologies and software applications you can create a system that allows you to: see what’s happening, make something happen or explore why it happened. This not only enhances the overall safety culture but also creates better situational awareness for response times and improved outcomes.

Q: How important is collaboration and data sharing among stakeholders to enhance safety compliance?

RN: Each stakeholder has a shared responsibility. Incidents cause major disruption and losses can run into thousands; and with higher levels of new employees being onboarded this has never been more key.

One example is ground handling. While significant advancements have been made in enhancing passenger and employee safety in the aviation industry over the last thirty years, ground support communication has lagged behind. Unfortunately, it continues to rely on outdated methods such as hand signals, shouting or awkwardly relying on a single team member to communicate with the pilot, leaving the rest of the ground crew puzzled and out of the loop.

In 2023 eight ground handling companies were served notices for health and safety breaches. It is clear that there is a pressing need for improved communication.

Q: Are there any noteworthy success stories related to these solutions?

RN: Business intelligence isn’t something you’d traditionally associate with two-way radios, or BBPTT, but with digitally-powered unified communications, you can now enhance these systems by integrating powerful data and software applications. This enables transparency and accountability during and after events, all controlled from a single device.

Such was the case for ABM who deployed a BBPTT solution with smart devices and a software app. New levels of interoperability and team collaboration are now possible, which has supported their HSE KPIs.

Another example is Manchester Airport Group (MAG). By using a MOTOTRBO capacity max radio system and data created by their TRBOnet software, they now have a centralised platform for both voice and data as well as history to analyse past incidents, supporting goals within their health, safety and operational resilience strategy.

Q: What future developments in aviation health and safety technology do you foresee, and how can they further enhance safety practices?

RN: We are continually seeing new features and

functionalities become available. Two-way radios and BBPTT no longer have the limitations they once did. They integrate with other technologies, can control assets, track via GPS, support software apps and operate with full multimedia capabilities.

Video security systems such as those from Avigilon include artificial intelligence, providing unified connectivity with other technology such as digital twoway radio and body-worn cameras.

This is allowing our customers to narrow down the number of devices being used, which has certainly made a difference when budgeting.

Q: In conclusion, how would you summarise the impact of communications technology on health and safety in the aviation industry?

RN: Feedback from our customers has been clear that technologies such as two-way radio, BBPTT and telematics have really raised the bar for safety measures. With even more advancements on the horizon, we can expect to see more integration in order to support an even safer environment for all involved in aviation.

About Radiocoms

Since 1973, Radiocoms, a provider of business critical communication solutions, has been a trusted supplier to airports, airlines and aviation services including MAG, Heathrow Airport, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, United Airlines, Jet2, Do & Co, Aero Mag, National Express and Menzies. This is all supported by their airport based engineering teams and managed services providing 24/7 support.

Click here to find out more about Radiocoms Systems Ltd

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