SPECIAL REPORT
AODB Systems for Regional Airports
Dedicated and Innovative Solutions to Optimize Regional Airport Capacity Surviving as a Regional Hub How the Airport Operations Database is Evolving Bespoke AODB Solutions Show the Way for Regional Airports The Importance of Agility
Published by Global Business Media
SPECIAL REPORT: AODB SYSTEMS FOR REGIONAL AIRPORTS
SPECIAL REPORT
AODB Systems for Regional Airports
Dedicated and Innovative Solutions to Optimize Regional Airport Capacity Surviving as a Regional Hub
Contents
How the Airport Operations Database is Evolving Bespoke AODB Solutions Show the Way for Regional Airports The Importance of Agility
Foreword
2
Tom Cropper, Editor
Dedicated and Innovative Solutions to Optimize Regional Airport Capacity
3
Adecs AirSystems
Adecs AirSystems
Sponsored by
Published by Global Business Media
Published by Global Business Media Global Business Media Limited 62 The Street Ashtead Surrey KT21 1AT United Kingdom Switchboard: +44 (0)1737 850 939 Fax: +44 (0)1737 851 952 Email: info@globalbusinessmedia.org Website: www.globalbusinessmedia.org Publisher Kevin Bell
AirLink Other AirSystems Next Step Innovation: Open Airport Platform
Surviving as a Regional Hub
6
Tom Cropper, Editor
Global Aviation Growth The Rise of the Regional Airport The Benefits of a Regional Airport
Business Development Director Marie-Anne Brooks
Making Air Travel Pay
Editor Tom Cropper
How the Airport Operations Database is Evolving
Senior Project Manager Steve Banks Advertising Executives Michael McCarthy Abigail Coombes
8
James Butler, Staff Writer
The Rise of Data Gaining New Insights Cyber Security
Production Manager Paul Davies
The Digital Arms Race
For further information visit: www.globalbusinessmedia.org
Bespoke AODB Solutions Show 10 the Way for Regional Airports
The opinions and views expressed in the editorial content in this publication are those of the authors alone and do not necessarily represent the views of any organisation with which they may be associated.
Tom Cropper, Editor
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Bespoke Platforms
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Airport Collaborative Decision-Making Concept New Solutions Fit for the Future
The Importance of Agility
12
Jo Roth, Staff Writer
Developing an Agile Plan Putting a Plan into Action When Agile Goes Wrong
References 14
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SPECIAL REPORT: AODB SYSTEMS FOR REGIONAL AIRPORTS
Foreword O
ver the last ten years, regional airports have
accessible location, they help operators make better
become more popular. They are adding
decisions and improve processes. The rise of web-
flights, destinations and giving customers more
based platforms makes them more affordable,
choice. To take them onto the next level, they need
accessible and customizable than ever; perfect for
software tailored to their specific needs.
a regional airport.
Our opening article comes from Adecs AirSystems.
We then look at some of these innovations in action.
Their Airport Operating Database (AODB) software is
EUROCONTROL’s Airport Collaborative Decision
unique in that it is specifically designed for regional
Making (ACD) project aims to help airports of all sizes
hubs. By working closely with their customers, they
meet their capacity challenges, but smaller airports
say, they are developing a system based around
with limited resources may struggle to achieve them.
what these hubs want rather than a system originally
New solutions are automating processes and levelling
designed to work with major international airports.
the playing field.
We then look at the rise of the regional airport
Finally, we’ll focus on implementation. Technology
and how this is changing air travel. Customers are
is available but, without smart implementation,
becoming more demanding. They are weary of the
it may not deliver much value. To do this, Jo Roth
stressful experience we’ve all come to expect when
argues that airports must embrace the principles of
travelling by air and want something which is quieter
agile business to ensure innovation is flexible and
and more convenient.
customizable to their needs.
This new business is welcome, but it creates
The back office will be a key battleground for
challenges. To remain financially viable, regional
airports of all sizes. Data creates opportunities and
airports must become slicker and more efficient.
their success may depend on how able they are at
Software is the answer. James Butler looks at how
capturing it.
airport operations databases are improving. They serve as an example of how big data can change the game. By bringing all the key data into one easily
Tom Cropper Editor
Tom Cropper has produced articles and reports on various aspects of global business over the past 15 years. He has also worked as a copywriter for some of the largest corporations in the world, including ING, KPMG and the World Wildlife Fund.
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SPECIAL REPORT: AODB SYSTEMS FOR REGIONAL AIRPORTS
Dedicated and Innovative Solutions to Optimize Regional Airport Capacity Adecs AirSystems New technology allows ground signs to be clearer, more reliable, affordable and capable of coping with increased capacity over the coming years.
AirMap is a visualisation platform which supports airport operators to face one of the biggest challenges in a dynamic environment - keeping
R
EGIONAL AIRPORTS are in counterpart with big hub-airports like small villages where people genuinely know each other. Not only staff behave like family but also most frequent flyers or even the seasonal flyers, who are also being people from the local community, are sometimes treated as relatives. This results in staff taking real pride in their jobs and trying to do the best they can in their position in the chain, as it might even be their own neighbour who is in front of their desk. Often, staff at regional airports can have multiple roles, as peak hours shift continuously throughout the boarding process. For instance, when a check-in agent is finished at their checkin-desk, he or she might easily change roles and become a gate-agent or even a security officer and are thus far more aware of the journey of the passenger and have a better overview of the bigger picture. Resources are often limited and, therefore, need to be optimized. Staff who frequently encounter capacity issues will use their experience to create ‘operational solutions’ where necessary. As a result, we see many creative solutions thought up spontaneously with a view to achieving savings
track of what in both time and money. All for the benefit of customers, off course. With this knowledge and by using the creativity of people who have worked in airports for many years at different levels, Adecs started developing software to optimize the process of ‘being‘ a regional airport - software that will keep evolving by responding to pressure points at airports and with the use of innovations, while sharing solutions amongst similar airports in a total airport management system called Airlink. We believe in standard software that can tailormade to the requirements of each airport. While airports all have much in common, there are often differences which present their own problems that need to be solved and advantages that need to be retained.
is happening and where it is happening
Adecs AirSystems In 2000, Adecs was formed as a company with consultancy and IT solutions for Airports. Since 2004, we have operated and further developed our first AODB system at Dutch Airports. In 2012, we realized that there were hardly any suitable new systems for small and regional airports on the market. The systems used were mostly one-off systems developed by IT companies or WWW.AIRPORTTECHNOLOGYREPORTS.COM | 3
SPECIAL REPORT: AODB SYSTEMS FOR REGIONAL AIRPORTS
downscaled systems for hub-airports. For that reason, we started the development of a family of complementary IT solutions tailored to smaller and regional airports.
AirLink
Often, staff at regional airports can have multiple roles, as peak hours shift continuously throughout the boarding process
The largest of our systems is the Airport Information Management System - AirLink (with AODB). As referred to above, this has been developed specifically for regional airports. As a result, only the functionality that is required for regional airports is available. To ensure its suitability for regional airports of different sizes, it is modular in design to enable extending its functions by adding modules. In total there are 22 modules available for all required features at a regional airport. Airports with approximately 1 Million passengers per year in general need only 5 to 7 modules. As the airports grow, modules can be added when required. Because AirLink can be adjusted to the size of the airport, it has a very favourable price structure. AirLink is an A-CDM compliant Airport Information Management System. With the use of an Operational Database (AODB), the system streamlines information management. The system host manages and disseminates flight and passenger-related information which can be shared with all partners on the airport, improving situational awareness, helping decision-making and streamlining operations. Without a good AODB management system, sharing information between partners and making operational decisions is almost impossible.
Because all airports are different, it’s almost impossible to prduce a standard system which includes all functionality for all types of airports. Although the core of AirLink is the same for all airports, we offer the opportunity to add specific functionalities through separate customized modules. Summarized, the key features of AirLink are; • Modular setup • Total Airport management System • CDM-ready (advanced ATC TWR) • Web-based • Customizable
Other AirSystems The other AirSystems can all be linked to the AirLink system. AirSignage, a FIDS solution that combines flight information with any targeted content for every possible display situation at your airport. You can use digital screens to communicate what you want, when you want it, in any area of the airport. All powered by one single software solution. AirMap is a visualisation platform which supports airport operators to face one of the biggest challenges in a dynamic environment keeping track of what is happening and where it is happening. AirMap displays all relevant information on an interactive map of the airport and its surroundings, providing an instant overview of the situation. Enabling AirFee will ensure automatic identification of aircraft and automatic recording of take-offs, landings and those that touch and go. Aside from aircraft identification information (aircraft type, registration and the ICAO 24-bit address), the recorded information also contains the date, time and type of event.
Next Step The pressure on airport capacity will continue for many years, which means regional airports will become even more important. In order to keep up with the demands, new innovations are needed to ensure that passenger experience and operational efficiency improve. For that reason, Adecs recently started an innovation project called the Open Airport Platform.
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SPECIAL REPORT: AODB SYSTEMS FOR REGIONAL AIRPORTS
Innovation: Open Airport Platform The era of obtaining public support by sponsoring events or creating parks and playgrounds in areas affected most by airplanes landing and taking off is over. Today it is about concrete and substantial contributions to the region - creating jobs and learning opportunities, providing services and being a breeding ground for new businesses. Rotterdam The Hague Airport is recognizing these conditions in their strategy, by connecting with city councils, the province of South Holland and TU Delft in forming an ‘Airport Technology Fieldlab’, to create education opportunities and new businesses. One of the main features of Fieldlab is the “Open Airport Platform”. This platform should eliminate the barriers between education and the introduction of new technology often created by the generally closed digital infrastructure at airports. This should make it easier to test new technology and provide proof that those technologies work. This “open” approach has not been seen before in the wide-ranging world of regional airport information systems. The AirLink system has been operational since 2014 at Rotterdam The Hague Airport, which will be the basis for the Open Airport Platform development.
The development for this open airport platform will mean a radical overhaul of the information systems of regional airports. Airports will be able to benefit substantially from the investment by: -T ailor made solutions: In the future, airports can make their own specific additions to the information system or order it from a specialised company. -D o what you do best: Additions can be managed by the relevant experts. Therefore, quality and revenues no longer depend on the knowledge available from the supplier of the specific airport information system. -L iberalisation of the market: The supplier of the open airport platform concentrates on the build, security, maintenance and support of the open platform and makes it available to all relevant parties. So there is no longer vendor lock-in. These benefits mean higher security of the systems, short introduction periods for new solutions, overall cost reductions and, at the same time, a potential higher return on investment. But mostly it will mean adding value to the region, such as education and new business opportunities. And that, in return, gives the airport a right to exist. The next generation of AirLink will therefore be an Open Airport Platform which is likely to become available in the next two years.
These benefits mean higher security of the systems, short introduction periods for new solutions, overall cost reductions and, at the same time, a potential higher return on investment
To ensure its suitability for regional airports of different sizes, it is modular in design to enable extending its functions by adding modules
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SPECIAL REPORT: AODB SYSTEMS FOR REGIONAL AIRPORTS
Surviving as a Regional Hub Tom Cropper, Editor Regional hubs are becoming more popular, but profits remain elusive. How can they capitalize on new opportunities within their financial constraints?
T
A third of people who travel by air feel it is more stressful than the working week and nearly a quarter feel it is worse than moving house. Four million people say they have given up flying altogether
HE REGIONAL airport has always been the poor relation to the shinier mega hubs. Set outside of town and serving smaller communities, they have traditionally kept traffic low and numbers small. Now, though, things are changing. Volumes are increasing and they are expanding. Even so, life is challenging and, to make ends meet, they need to become creative.
Global Aviation Growth Aviation is booming. IATA’s 20 Year Forecast predicts the number of passengers to double by 2037 to 8.7bn. Over that period, they say, the number of people travelling by air will grow at an annual rate of 3.5% . The bulk of that growth will come from China which is rapidly upscaling its infrastructure. The opening of the enormous star shaped Beijing Daxing Airport puts China on course to become the world’s largest aviation market. Once it hits full capacity, the airport expects to carry 100 million passengers every year . Around the world, major hubs such as Heathrow, Gatwick, Chongqing, Mumbai and JFK are all expanding. However, these airports can only grow so far. Expansion is incredibly expensive and controversial. Daxing Airport has already been labelled the world’s most expensive with a price tag of approximately US$12bn . As the ongoing experience of Heathrow shows, expansion is highly controversial. It’s plans for a new runway have run into fierce political opposition, while it regularly has to deal with protests from climate activists . As concern about the environment grows, there is less appetite for larger and more polluting mega hubs. There is a limit to how far the biggest airports can grow and, because of that, they are struggling to meet demand. The modern airport is overcrowded and stressful. According to a recent study from CPP, a third of people who travel by air feel it is more stressful than the working week and nearly a quarter feel it is worse than moving house. Four million people say they
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have given up flying altogether. Stress, then, is an existential threat to the booming aviation market, but for regional airports it can also be seen as an opportunity.
The Rise of the Regional Airport In the last year, figures from the Civil Aviation Authority show that a record 95 million people used a regional airport, a 9% increase over the 87 million who used them two years previously. Around the world, regional airports have announced aggressive expansion plans. In 2018, Bristol Airport submitted a planning application to North Somerset Country Council seeking to increase capacity to 12 million passengers by 2020 . In the US, regional airports now account for 19% of total air traffic . Governments are supportive. To improve airport infrastructure, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) awarded $840 million in Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grants to more than 380 airports in 47 States . In the UK, the Government has invested millions into its Air Connectivity Fund which aims to improve access to regional airports. They see it as boosting customer choice and creating local jobs. The Benefits of a Regional Airport There are clear benefits to travelling from a regional airport. Where Heathrow is crowded, noisy and stressful, regional airports are likely to be quieter and more relaxed. Passengers will spend less time fighting their way through check-in and will have an easier time travelling to the airport. A survey into public attitudes to air travel found that, while 17% of passengers who had travelled from a major airport used public transport to get there, that number dropped to 6% for regional travelers . Partly as a result of all this, the same study found that satisfaction levels are higher for regional airports (96%) than larger hubs (90%). In a world in which customer experience is becoming more important, regional airports have an advantage. They will be easier to get to, are
SPECIAL REPORT: AODB SYSTEMS FOR REGIONAL AIRPORTS
ADECS AIRSYSTEMS - TECHNOLOGY IS JUST THE BEGINNING
quieter, less stressful and waiting times are lower. As they begin to add more destinations, they give passengers more choice. There might have been a time when passengers had little option but to use one of the biggest airports to travel to certain destinations, but today there is often a closer and more convenient alternative. As a result, traffic in the future will be spread over more airports.
Making Air Travel Pay The future looks bright for regional hubs, but even so, many are struggling to make ends meet. Larger airports have thrived thanks to their ability to diversify into new revenue streams. Aeronautical revenue doesn’t cover costs. A recent study from Airports Council International found that only 55% of every aeronautical dollar is generated by passenger-related charges. The total cost per passenger for each airport is US$13.69, but this exceeds average per passenger revenues of US$9.95. If an airport is to be profitable it must increase revenue from other areas such as retail, but this is much more difficult for smaller airports. As a result, most struggle to make any money. The
same report found that 80% of airports in the world have fewer than a million passengers per year. Of these, 94% are loss making . Regional airports are adding to their retail offering, but their capacity is limited. There is no turning the departure lounge into a glorified shopping center. They have to make do with the infrastructure they have at their disposal, which means they must turn to other options. Regional hubs must optimize every part of their operations. They must ensure costs are minimized and that operations are as efficient as possible. For this, they have to get control of their data. Airport management systems have become vital in helping airports to optimize their operations and to get the most out of every dollar spent. This helps them identify opportunities to reduce waste, control costs and increase revenue. They are very different from larger hubs. Staff tend to be more flexible; they operate across multiple departments and deliver a more personalized service. They need an airport management system which is tailored to the way in which they work. Systems which can do this will put the world’s smaller airports on a stronger footing for a challenging market.
A survey into public attitudes to air travel found that, while 17% of passengers who had travelled from a major airport used public transport to get there, that number dropped to 6% for regional travelers
Regional hubs must optimize every part of their operations. They must ensure costs are minimized and that operations are as efficient as possible. For this, they have to get control of their data
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SPECIAL REPORT: AODB SYSTEMS FOR REGIONAL AIRPORTS
How the Airport Operations Database is Evolving James Butler, Staff Writer The Airport Operations Database is evolving to produce all the data operators need in real time. It will a key component of future growth.
E The speed with which data has become the driving force of business has been breathtaking. International Data Corporation (IDC) predicts data to increase tenfold by 2025. The web, internet of things (IoT) and digital innovation help organizations to gather information from an ever-widening collection of sources
VERY YEAR, we see articles hyping the top technology trends for airports for the coming year. Each time they tend to focus on the same thing: AI, connectivity, virtual reality, biometrics and robotics, but they leave out the most important: data. We live in a world of big data. Each airport generates vast quantities of data every day, much of which can help to improve operations, increase revenue and save money. The trouble is, capturing that data is difficult and most existing management systems at regional airports are inadequate for the task.
The Rise of Data The speed with which data has become the driving force of business has been breathtaking. International Data Corporation (IDC) predicts data to increase tenfold by 2025. The web, internet of things (IoT) and digital innovation help organizations to gather information from an ever-widening collection of sources. Indeed, technology is evolving so quickly that companies face the risk of a ‘data gap’ in which their ability to utilize data falls behind that of their competitors. Nowhere is this more important than airports. The Airport Operations Database (AODB) sits at the heart of everything, gathering information on the whole spectrum from arrivals and departures to HR, baggage, security, finances and scheduling. The more of that information operators can see, and the more up to date it is, the clearer that picture will be. As technology improves, so does the scope of what an AODB can do. It can receive updates on the progress of flights, accounting for delays and scheduling changes. It can automate processes such as resource allocation and scheduling, reducing much of the administrative demands of managing operations. It can issue alerts if the situation changes allowing all relevant stakeholders to react proactively to events on the ground as and when they happen. The result is operations which are inherently more flexible and efficient. Resource managers
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can look at scheduling and see exactly when an aircraft is expected to arrive. If it is delayed, they can use that information to allocate resources accordingly. The rise of web platforms and cloud computing also has profound implications. Airports around the world, particularly large hubs such as Heathrow, are leading the adoption of cloud computing applications as part of the ‘think differently’ approach , with an emphasis on economies of scale. The cloud allows airports to access data resources on demand, using service capacity as and when required. It removes the necessity for expensive and cumbersome infrastructure and provides access to as much computing power as the organization needs. This enables an AODB which is more agile, using structured and unstructured data, to deliver real time insights into operations. It allows teams to move from a rigid planning system to one which is more flexible and dynamic. Data can be made available to third party stakeholders and partners wherever they are. All they need is an internet connection and the ability to connect securely to the central database. They can access information on the go without having to be on site and make decisions on the fly.
Gaining New Insights All this data will also contain insights into operations. Systems can now analyze data to shed light on how the airport is working, the throughput of traffic and efficiency of operations. Algorithms can automatically predict events allowing teams to plan ahead proactively to improve the efficiency of operations in the future. One of the most important insights will be financial. Airports operate in a challenging environment. They are predominantly a fixed cost business. Infrastructure costs do not vary depending on throughput of traffic; unlike airlines, they cannot respond to lower traffic flows by reducing capacity. Airports must commit
SPECIAL REPORT: AODB SYSTEMS FOR REGIONAL AIRPORTS
to long term planning decisions to safeguard capacity for the future. They are continually searching for more airlines, new routes and fresh revenue opportunities in order to improve financial performance. However, airports can make themselves more sustainable by improving financial management. This is an issue for businesses of all kinds, but particularly small and medium sized operations. Finances can be complex, and many businesses use financial reports which will already be out of date by the time they are compiled. Operators, therefore, often find themselves with an inaccurate idea of how much money they have available, what money is coming in and what costs they are likely to incur. Advanced systems which can provide real time financial reporting give managers a much clearer idea of the financial challenges they face. Reports which once might have taken days to create can now be compiled in minutes. They can track expenses and revenue, manage invoices and ensure they are paid promptly.
Cyber Security Increased connectivity and digital technology are certainly bringing immense benefits across the value chain. However, as data becomes more mobile, airports are having to face up to the growing threat of cybercrime. Aviation is one of the most common targets of cyber criminals. Their motives may be financial or political. For example, by disrupting an AODB, hacktivists could bring operations to a standstill or even put the safety of passengers in jeopardy. Alternatively, by shutting airports out of their own systems, they can be forced to pay a ransom to get back online. For example, in 2018 a ransomware attack at Bristol Airport caused information screens to go blank . Cybercrime is a growing threat. The Cyber Security market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 11% between 2019 and 2024 . Any third-party
provider represents a potential threat if their security systems are not securely protected. With mobile web-based platforms, there is an added threat in the form of multiple mobile devices. Endpoint security is a crucial, but often ignored, issue. Each device used to connect to the platform represents a potential security risk, one which is easy to overlook. Airports will need to establish clear protocols to monitor which devices are used to access their systems. When personal data of either staff or passengers is involved, airports must ensure complete regulatory compliance. Under the terms of GDPR, they retain responsibility for any data held by a third party. If a breach does occur, they could be held liable. They must ensure, also, that they have gained informed consent from all individuals to use the data and been entirely transparent about how it will be used, shared or stored. If a person requests their data to be modified or deleted, an airport must be able to fulfil that request.
The Digital Arms Race Developments bring risks, and airports must understand these before they implement any form of digital transformation. Even so, the benefits make it all worthwhile. By taking control of their data, airports will be able to give themselves greater oversight of operations, make better decisions, achieve efficiency gains and drill down into the granular detail of operations. This will help them to deliver faster turnarounds, increase capacity, improve the customer experience and save money. This new generation of technologies will give adopters a crucial advantage over the competition. Airports which are slow to move will struggle to make money and increase capacity. A gap will open up between the digital haves and have nots. The challenge will be to implement this technology in a sustainable way to improve operations and deliver real value to the airport.
Airports must commit to long term planning decisions to safeguard capacity for the future. They are continually searching for more airlines, new routes and fresh revenue opportunities in order to improve financial performance
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SPECIAL REPORT: AODB SYSTEMS FOR REGIONAL AIRPORTS
Bespoke AODB Solutions Show the Way for Regional Airports Tom Cropper, Editor Regional airports are growing rapidly, but they are very different from their larger counterparts. They need IT systems tailored to their needs.
A To date, approximately 30 airports have signed up to the A-CDM project. However, compiling the data it requires and making sure it stays accurate can be burdensome
VIATION IS becoming busier, more demanding and more dynamic. Timing is everything and every second counts as airports strive to make the best use of their resources and maximize capacity. Systems need to be more streamlined and data must be shared quickly to ensure everyone is operating with the latest and most accurate information possible.
Airport Collaborative Decision-Making Concept The need to increase the speed of operations led to the creation of the Airport Collaborative Decision-Making (A-CDM) project. Developed as a joint venture between ACI Europe, EUROCONTROL International Air Transport Association and the Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation (CANSO), the project aims to improve operational efficient by reducing delays, increasing the predictability of events, sharing information between stakeholders and optimizing the utilization of resources. To date, approximately 30 airports have signed up to the A-CDM project. However, compiling the data it requires and making sure it stays accurate can be burdensome. For example, to comply with the full A-CDM concept, airports will need to provide information to Network Managers about the time an aircraft will become airborne and when it can be expected to arrive. One of the most important metrics in this is the Target Off Block Time (TOBT) which is the time when an aircraft operator estimates the aircraft will be ready with all doors closed, boarding bridge removed to start up. To ensure this data remains accurate, key milestones need to be monitored. There can be as many as 16 of these which entails a considerable amount of work. Concerns about whether a regional airport can manage this workload can slow down the deployment of A-CDM.
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New Solutions A trial at Alicante Airport examined a low cost, low workload solution which could provide a more simplified approach to turnaround monitoring in a way which is suited to regional airports, as part of the SESAR 2020 Project PJ04 Solution 1 (Enhanced Airport Collaborative Performance Monitoring). EUROCONTROL established a week-long shadow mode exercise on a validation platform which was connected to the Network Manager to receive flight update messages and a full set of departure planning information messages. A database captured aircraft status including boarding status and used that information to automate key processes reducing the workload required to comply with A-CDM. The trial suggested a more advanced IT system could save time and money, both of which are at a premium for regional hubs. The world is changing rapidly for these smaller airports and they need to change with it. Passengers are becoming more demanding; they want to fly from a regional airport if possible and are pushing them to increase the number of destinations they are flying to. Airports which once may have handled only a few destinations are now travelling around the world. It’s an enormous leap and existing operations systems will often be ill equipped to cope. However, many of the solutions available on the market are designed with the needs of large international hubs in mind.
Bespoke Platforms This was the challenge facing Munster/Osnabruck Airport in North Rhine Westphalia. It has expanded in recent years and is handling more international flights to European destinations. It was Germany’s fastest growing airport in 2017 and added five new destinations and two new airlines in 2018 . It plans to further grow the
SPECIAL REPORT: AODB SYSTEMS FOR REGIONAL AIRPORTS
AIRPORT PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT
number of routes it handles and increase the frequency of flights to existing destinations. For such ambitious plans, the airport’s existing AODB was too slow, cumbersome and did not provide the level of functionality required. A solution was needed which, firstly, would help them to take the next step and, secondly, was tailored to their unique challenges as a regional airport. The solution they chose was AirLink from Adecs. Unlike others on the market, this platform has been created specifically for regional airports rather than international hubs. The system was designed and is continually updated in collaboration with regional airports. This helps them to produce a system from the user’s perspective rather than retrofitting something which might have been designed with a larger hub in mind. Simplicity, affordability and accessibility are key. The system is web based which means there is no additional hardware to install. All the software required to make it work is hosted in the cloud. By accessing a secure online portal, users can enjoy features such as mobile access across multiple locations and departments and cross platform compatibility. It is modular which means it can be integrated in a flexible way. It is possible to start small and to grow the system as requirements evolve.
The system recognizes that regional airports, in particular, require something bespoke which provides the right amount of functionality for their needs. Adopting a more rigid system designed for a larger operation runs the risk of functionality overload. It adds cost and complexity and may leave customers with a far more comprehensive system than they need. New modules can be added when needed or switched off when they are not.
Last but not least, AirLink helps airports meet the best practices of EUROCONTROL’S Collaborative DecisionMaking project
Fit for the Future Last but not least, AirLink helps airports meet the best practices of EUROCONTROL’S Collaborative Decision-Making project. The concept of being A-CDM ready will become increasingly important for these systems. It allows users to enjoy the benefits of A-CDM and to equip itself for the challenges of the future. Efficiency and optimization will be the watchwords for the future. Airports will need to reduce costs and maximize efficiency wherever possible. Access to data will be key. With an advanced AODB, they can automate many processes, access real time data and improve collaboration between all stakeholders. This leads to reduced costs and better, more effective decision-making and will help even smaller operations increase capacity within their existing infrastructure limitations.
Passengers are becoming more demanding; they want to fly from a regional airport if possible
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SPECIAL REPORT: AODB SYSTEMS FOR REGIONAL AIRPORTS
The Importance of Agility Jo Roth, Staff Writer One of the most common reasons new technology fails is that it is not implemented in the right way. To improve their chances, managers will need to adopt a more agile approach.
T
Having a plan in place is important, but it should be seen for what it is: a starting point and nothing more. It must have the ability to evolve and to adjust to changing requirements. Teams must be able to communicate and review practices to make changes as and when needed
ECHNOLOGY IS crucial to the future of regional airports. It is a high-tech world and without the latest solutions they will be unable to compete. However, implementation itself can be risky and, as useful as technology is, it can also create enormous problems if it fails. For example, in July, Gatwick was temporarily brought to a complete stop because systems running Air Traffic Control failed . In order for new technology to deliver on its goals, it has to be delivered correctly. However, traditional approaches to operation often make it more difficult to achieve a successful implementation.
Developing an Agile Plan There is a saying that ‘no battle plan survives contact with the enemy’. Alternatively, to borrow from the world of boxing, as Mike Tyson once said: ‘everyone has a plan until they get punched in the mouth’. In other words, it is all very well having a plan in place, but, if you can’t change it to take account of new realities, it won’t succeed. This is where many businesses go wrong. When implementing a new application, they draw up an initial plan. Each individual has an assigned role and is sent away to put them into action. Unfortunately, such plans are often too inflexible. Teams work in isolation, sticking to the structure of the plan no matter what happens. As a result, they cannot change course to take advantage of new insights or evolving problems. Having a plan in place is important, but it should be seen for what it is: a starting point and nothing more. It must have the ability to evolve and to adjust to changing requirements. Teams must be able to communicate and review practices to make changes as and when needed. To achieve this, developers are turning to the concept of ‘agile business’ to create flexible plans and processes which are suited to the digital age. The concept of agile business originated the world of IT. It was established in 2001 by a group of developers who recognized that traditional business structures were
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becoming outdated. They created an agile manifesto which relies on continuously reviewing and updating plans, empowering individuals and working in short stages, referred to as sprints . In this approach, teams are interconnected and are flexible enough to switch course to take account of new challenges. You might think of it in the same way as a football team. A manager sets out a plan and empowers his team to carry it out. However, while that game plan is critical, it may change depending on the twists and turns of each match.
Putting a Plan into Action The same is true when implementing a system. First, operators need to assess their existing practices to see how they deliver on their goals and, if they do not, where they are falling short. Once processes have been mapped, operators can establish whether an application fits with them. If it does not, they must ask whether the application needs to be customized or if processes can be changed. All stakeholders will need to be involved in the plan. They should have a clear mental picture of their priorities, what they want to happen and how it can be delivered. A new application must be judged on its ability to deliver on each of those goals. It may need to be customizable to meet the needs of different stakeholders. Finally, once the time has come to implement a plan, it must be done in a way which allows for review and change. The principle of agile business relies on short sharp stages (sprints) in which projects are delivered quickly, progress is reviewed and teams share information. This enables leaders to carry out continual improvements and to assess progress. At the end of each sprint, they can identify what went well, what didn’t and what needs to be changed. They then go again with a new sprint. The result is an implementation which is agile, in which teams communicate and react to events as and when they occur. In theory, this should ensure innovation arrives quicker and is more suited to the end use when it arrives. It should reduce the
SPECIAL REPORT: AODB SYSTEMS FOR REGIONAL AIRPORTS
risk of new systems experiencing glitches, or staff having difficulty using them or of unplanned downtime due to systems not working together. It’s an approach tailored to the needs of regional airports, where incremental approaches may be the only option. Step-by-step implementation allows airports to become accustomed to new systems, to test how they work in real settings and to see how they interact with existing processes and applications.
When Agile Goes Wrong That is the theory, but agile processes themselves often go wrong. According to one study from IT consultancy 6Point6, 32% of agile projects are not fully successful; 12% fail completely. The report argues that British businesses waste £37bn on failed agile projects each year . Project failures can lead to disillusionment about the entire
concept of agility. Indeed, , according to the report, 53% of executives feel it is discredited. The problem, though, stems not from the concept itself, but from how it is used. Culture is critical. The entire organization must buy into the concept and embrace it; if one part of the organization is working in an agile way, but another is not, the entire project may be compromised. When done correctly, this concept can be very successful. It can help airports transition towards new technologies and ensure innovation achieves its goals. Equally, while teams need to become more agile, so do applications. Every airport is unique. Solutions will need to be customizable and capable of adapting to fit different requirements. For both buyers and sellers, therefore, the future will be one in which agility is everything.
Every airport is unique. Solutions will need to be customizable and capable of adapting to fit different requirements
According to one study from IT consultancy 6Point6, 32% of agile projects are not fully successful; 12% fail completely. The report argues that British businesses waste £37bn on failed agile projects each year
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References: 1
IATA Forecast Predicts 8.7bn Air Travellers by 2037: https://www.iata.org/pressroom/pr/Pages/2018-10-24-02.aspx
Beijing Opens Sprawling Starfish Shaped Second Airport: https://www.cnbc.com/2019/09/26/beijing-daxing-airport-takes-china-closer-to-being-worlds-largest-aviation-market.html
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The World’s Most Expensive Airport Will Open in Beijing this Year: https://hk.asiatatler.com/life/the-worlds-most-expensive-airport-is-scheduled-to-open-in-beijing-this-year
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Heathrow Protests. Climate Activists Disrupting Flights: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/heathrow-protests-drone-airport-pause-extinction-rebellion-climate-change-a9084636.html
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Bristol Airport Announces Major Expansion Plans: https://www.businessleader.co.uk/bristol-airport-announce-major-expansion-plans/57409/
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US Regional Airports Accounted for 19% of Seats in 2017: https://www.anna.aero/2018/01/31/us-regional-airports-accounted-for-24-of-all-seats-in-2017/
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Best Not to Overlook Regional Airports: http://www.airport-world.com/news/general-news/7218-blog-best-not-to-overlook-regional-airports.html
Public Experiences and Attitudes Towards Air Travel: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/8907/attitudes-towards-air-travel-feb-2010.pdf
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Aeronautical Report Affirms Importance of Non Aeronautical Dollar: https://aci.aero/news/2019/03/28/aci-economics-report-affirms-the-importance-of-non-aeronautical-revenues-for-airports-financial-sustainability/
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UK Airports Lead Adoption of the Cloud: https://www.cloudwatchhub.eu/uk-airports-lead-move-cloud-services Cyber Attack Led to Blank Screens: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-bristol-45539841
Aviation Cyber Security Growth: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20190802005183/en/Aviation-Cyber-Security-Market-Increasing-Rate-Cyber-attacks
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Munster/Osnabruck Airport Enjoyed 23% Traffic Increase in 2017: http://bit.ly/2BBDabb Munster Osnabruck Airport FMO: http://bit.ly/2BBDabb
London Gatwick Airport Just Suffered a Complete Failure of Air Traffic Control: https://www.businessinsider.com/london-gatwick-airport-delays-air-traffic-control-systems-failure-2019-7?r=US&IR=T
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Manifesto for Agile Software Development: https://www.agilealliance.org/executives-dont-think-we-are-doing-agile-right/
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UK Businesses Wasting £37bn Each Year on Failed Agile Projects: https://www.paymentscardsandmobile.com/failed-agile-it-projects/
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Notes:
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Notes:
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