Airports rely heavily on technology to function efficiently in almost every aspect of their operations. From managing air traffic, ensuring security, handling baggage, and communication to managing parking, technology is at the heart of it all. As a result, airports utilise various technological systems designed to ensure the seamless operation of different airport functions.
In this article, we’ll look at the various technological systems in airports, what they consist of and how they are used. So, stick around to learn more about the fascinating world of airport technology.
Air Traffic Management and Control Systems (ATC)
This is one of the crucial technological systems in airports. ATC’s primary function is to oversee the control of airspace, airports, and terminals. Despite playing a crucial role, ATC systems operate behind the eyes of the public and airport passengers, ensuring the safe and efficient flow of aircraft in the skies. ATC systems are equipped with advanced technologies and manned by skilled air traffic controllers to ensure efficiency in guiding aircraft from departure to arrival.
- Radar systems (e.g., surface movement, surveillance and holographic radars).
- Navigation and surveillance systems.
- Voice communication systems (UHF, VHF).
- Collision avoidance systems.
- Meteorological sensors and displays.
Baggage and Cargo Handling Systems
Almost every major airport in the world has implemented a baggage handling system since its introduction in 1971. Automating baggage handling systems has allowed airports to make significant progress in accurately monitoring and processing luggage movements.
Baggage and cargo handling systems encompass the mechanisms and processes employed for efficiently managing, sorting, loading, and unloading luggage and freight. Their primary function is to ensure the smooth and timely transfer of baggage and cargo from check-in counters to aircraft holds or designated collection points, enhancing operational efficiency and customer satisfaction while maintaining security and safety standards.
Baggage and cargo handling systems are also responsible for counting and tracking bags, managing input volume to prevent system overload, detecting obstructions, and distributing bags evenly across conveyor subsystems to ensure load balancing.
Baggage handling systems are made up of:
- Check-in and self-bag drop systems
- Early baggage storage
- Baggage unloading systems
- Hold baggage screening
- Bag transport and sortation systems
- Baggage reclaims carousels
Security Screening Systems
Airport security screening systems are put in place to protect airport employees, customers, and infrastructure against terrorist threats. These systems use a wide range of technology to identify and prevent the entrance of unauthorised individuals, items, and threats to the airport’s protected areas.
Airport security screening systems include millimetre-wave scanners, walk-through metal detectors, explosive trace detectors (ETDs), and X-ray scanners, all integrated with specialised software for efficient operation. Biometric identification technologies such as fingerprint or face recognition are also integrated to reinforce identity verification and access control protocols.
Airside Operational Systems
Airports often encounter a significant influx of cars from passengers and other airport users, leading to the need to implement Airside Operational Systems. These airport technological systems streamline the parking process, enhance passenger convenience, and optimise the use of airport parking spaces.
Airside Operational Systems leverage a range of technologies and procedures. They typically include features such as automated ticket dispensers, parking guidance systems, electronic payment options, license plate recognition technology, and real-time parking availability displays. Additionally, these systems play a vital role in generating airport revenue through parking fees while bolstering security and surveillance in parking areas.
Airport Information Systems (AIS)
This is another important type of airport technology system. It includes hardware and software that collect, transmit, and update data from various airport sources. The main technologies of airport information systems are airport public address (PA) or announcement systems, automated terminal information service (ATIS), and flight information display systems (FIDS).
Airport information systems are pivotal in delivering essential information to passengers and staff. Flight Information Display System (FIDS) displays flight information such as arrival and departure times of various airlines and aircraft, current boarding status, flight numbers, and gates. FIDS can also show non-flight related information such as breaking news, weather, adverts, menus and safety messages.
The airport public address system is used when it is essential to communicate information or instructions to airport staff and passengers verbally. On the other hand, the Automatic Terminal Information System relays important data to pilots and crews, including runway conditions, weather reports, and more.
Airport Gurus for Airport Software Solutions
Airports rely on various technological systems to manage operations effectively, ensure passenger safety, and enhance travel experience. From advanced security screening and Airside Operational Systems to essential information dissemination and air traffic control tools, these technologies play a crucial role in maintaining the efficiency and functionality of airports worldwide.
When it comes to equipping your airport with the best airport technological system, no one does it better than Airport Gurus. Our all-inclusive airport technology solutions are designed to meet the specific needs of the aviation industry. We also offer expert airport operations and technology assistance and airport operations expertise consulting. Embrace the future of aviation by partnering with Airport Gurus and witness unparalleled levels of innovation and efficiency in your operations.
