The future of the aviation industry is data-driven and technology-enabled, and Airside 4.0 is at the forefront of this evolution.  It is empowering airports to move towards a smarter, more sustainable future, paving the way for efficient and safer airports. With Intelligent AiPRON, the Airside 4.0 strategy extends to apron management as well

In the latest issue of Airports International Magazine, Regardt Willer, VP business development and innovation at ADB SAFEGATE, explains how the Airside 4.0 concept will enable airports to tackle today’s problems head on. This is the third and final excerpt from the article on our blog. To view the full article in Issue 3 2023 you´ll need an Airports International Magazine subscription.

Intelligent AiPRON and Airside 4.0

The Airside 4.0 strategy extends to apron management as well. Complex co-ordination among various stakeholders, coupled with the financial impact of delays, prompted the development of ADB SAFEGATE’s groundbreaking Intelligent AiPRON solution to manage the aircraft turnaround process.

ADB SAFEGATE’s Safedock X and FleX advanced visual docking guidance systems (A-VDGS) are vital to the Intelligent AiPRON software suite, bringing automation to ensure safe, smooth aircraft docking and on-time pushbacks. The A-VDGS also capture and share valuable information such as real-time gate availability and accurate on-block times.

Fig. 1. Safedock Advanced Visual Docking Guidance Systems and Intelligent AiPRON solutions work together to manage apron activities from landing to takeoff.

The strategic deployment of cameras and sensors positioned inside the A-VDGS and across the apron captures real-time visual and environmental data during the turnaround. Once processed using AI algorithms, this allows the system to recognize patterns and provide valuable insights. Computer vision, for instance, can track aircraft movement, monitor ground handling activities and even assess environmental conditions in aid of optimized turnaround operations.

Various stakeholders can utilize the data and insights to streamline their respective operations in unique ways. For example, airports can optimize apron management and allocate resources more effectively. Airlines benefit from accurate predictions of off-block times, enabling them to better plan aircraft schedules, leading to improved passenger satisfaction.

The future is now
The future of the aviation industry is data-driven and technology-enabled, and Airside 4.0 is at the forefront of this evolution. It is empowering airports to move towards a smarter, more sustainable future, paving the way for efficient and safer airports.

Fig 2. ADB SAFEGATE Intelligent AiPRON turnaround analytics dashboard

Read all blog articles based on the article fully published in Airports International Magazine Issue 3, 2023:

Part 1: Empowering THE airside evolution – Connectivity for better decisions

Part 2: Empowering THE airside evolution – Sensors and digital twinning

Part 3: Empowering THE airside evolution – Intelligent AiPRON and Airside 4.0

ADB SAFEGATE  is a company that provides integrated solutions to airports, airlines, and ANSPs.  We are proud to be leading the way with innovative and smart Airside 4.0 solutions that turn airports into smart airports, with the ultimate goal of enhancing the passenger experience. Solutions include airfield lighting, power and control systems, airport and tower software, docking automation, apron management, and aftermarket services.  With over 1,400 employees and over 2,700 airports in over 175 countries, from the busiest and largest to the fastest-growing airports, ADB SAFEGATE is dedicated to making air travel safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly.