Revolutionising Airport Operations through TAT Optimisation
Published on : Thursday 04-04-2024
By investing in and embracing the potential of automation, the industry can ensure a smarter, more connected, and environmentally conscious future for air travel, says Rupojit Dutta.
In the fast-paced world of aviation, efficiency is paramount. Timely departures and arrivals are not just essential for the convenience of passengers but also crucial for profitability of airlines. One of the key factors influencing efficiency in aviation is the Aircraft Turnaround Time (TAT), the time an aircraft spends on the ground between landing and taking off from the airport. In recent years, the aviation industry has been leveraging automation technologies to streamline and optimise this critical phase of airport operations. This blog explores the significance of TAT automation and its transformative impact on airport operations for a smarter, more efficient aviation ecosystem worldwide
Understanding TAT
TAT is essentially a series of tasks and processes that occur on the ground, involving the arrival, chock-on, cleaning, refueling, boarding, chock-off, etc., of an aircraft. The numbers of TAT processes vary depending on flight size and other factors. The efficiency of these processes directly affects the overall punctuality and operational efficiency of airlines. Delays during the turnaround process not only inconvenience passengers but also lead to increased operational costs for airlines.
Alleviating manual challenges
Traditionally, aircraft turnaround processes have been largely manual, relying on coordination between various ground handling teams, airline staff, and airport authorities. This manual approach came with multiple challenges. Communication gaps, human errors, and the sheer complexity of coordinating multiple tasks within a tight timeframe often resulted in delays and operational inefficiencies.
Intuitive tech powering TAT optimisation
Automation technologies are playing a vital role in revolutionising the way aircraft turnaround processes are managed. By integrating smart AI based cameras, IoT based technologies, etc., airports and airlines can optimise their operations, reduce turnaround times, and enhance overall efficiency.
Some of these include:
Real-time data integration
Automation enables seamless integration of real-time data from various sources, including aircraft sensors, ground handling equipment, and weather monitoring systems. This data integration enables better decision-making and more accurate planning during the turnaround process.
Predictive analytics
Leveraging machine learning algorithms, predictive analytics can forecast potential delays and bottlenecks in the turnaround process. By analysing historical data and current conditions, airports can proactively address issues before they escalate.
Resource optimisation
Automation helps ensure optimisation of resources, such as ground crew, equipment, and gates. Smart algorithms can analyse workloads and allocate resources based on real-time demand.
Automated task management
Automation streamlines task management by coordinating activities such as baggage handling, fueling, and aircraft cleaning through a centralised system. This ensures that each task is completed in a timely and synchronised manner, minimising delays.
Enhanced communication
Unified communication systems facilitate improved communication and collaboration among different stakeholders involved in the turnaround process. This includes pilots, ground crew, air traffic control, and airport authorities. Real-time updates and alerts help everyone stay informed and aligned, reducing the likelihood of miscommunication-induced delays.
Multi-pronged benefits
The adoption of TAT brings about a myriad of benefits, not only for airlines and airports but also for passengers.
Operational efficiency: Automation significantly improves the efficiency of turnaround processes, leading to reduced ground times. Airlines can operate more flights with existing fleets, optimising their schedules, and increasing overall capacity.
Customer satisfaction: Shorter turnaround times contribute to on-time departures and arrivals, enhancing the overall travel experience for passengers. Increased punctuality leads to higher customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Cost savings: Automation helps reduce operational costs by optimising resource utilisation and minimising delays. Airlines can achieve cost savings through fuel efficiency, reduced labour costs, and enhanced overall operational productivity.
Environmental impact: Shorter turnaround times result in decreased fuel consumption, contributing to lower carbon emissions. The environmental impact of aviation is a growing concern, and automation plays a role in making operations more sustainable.
Safety improvements: Automation ensures that all safety-critical tasks are executed with adherence to protocols. This enhances overall safety standards during the turnaround process, reducing the risk of accidents and incidents.
Parking bay utilisation: Airport operator can gain a clear overview of the TAT process and estimate the Estimated Time of Departure (ETD) more accurately. This capability enables the operator to plan stand allocation with precision. Additionally, the solution provides visibility into historical data and insights on stand utilisation, facilitating improved planning of bay utilisation.
Asset tracking and geofencing: Upon connecting all airside mobile assets to the network, the airport operator, with the assistance of the TAT application, can monitor the assets and their movements in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). The application is also equipped to identify and report any violations that may occur.
ETA & TOBT predictions: After connecting all airside assets to the network and gaining visibility into the overall TAT processes, the solution will enable the operator to accurately calculate the on-block and off-block times of the aircraft.
TAT automation checklist
While TAT automation offers numerous advantages, its implementation is not without challenges. Security concerns, the need for standardised protocols, and the upfront costs of implementing automation technologies are some of the considerations that must be addressed by relevant stakeholders. Additionally, proper training and education for personnel involved in the turnaround process are essential to ensure a smooth transition to automated systems.
TAT is a game-changer for the aviation industry, ushering in a new era of efficiency, punctuality, and sustainability. As airports and airlines continue to embrace smart technologies, the benefits of automation will extend beyond operational improvements to positively impact the entire aviation ecosystem. By investing in and embracing the potential of automation, the industry can ensure a smarter, more connected, and environmentally conscious future for air travel.
Article Courtesy: NASSCOM Community – an open knowledge sharing platform for the Indian technology industry: https://community.nasscom.in/communities/emerging-tech/revolutionizing-airport-operations-through-tat-optimization
Rupojit Dutta is Solution Architect, Digital Transformation Office, Cisco India. He is currently working as Solution Architect for the transportation vertical for digital transformation (airports, seaports, LPAI, roadways). He has earlier worked as Solution Architect for smart cities.
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