Heathrow Elevates Passenger Experience

Heathrow Airport, known for its commitment to enhancing the travel experience for millions of passengers, has made significant strides in its operational and navigational efficiencies through strategic technological upgrades.

Heathrow Airport, known for its commitment to enhancing the travel experience for millions of passengers, has made significant strides in its operational and navigational efficiencies through strategic technological upgrades. In collaboration with ADB SAFEGATE, Heathrow undertook ambitious projects to overhaul its Flight Information Display System (FIDS) and upgrade to advanced Ramp Information Display Systems (RIDS), bringing enhanced experience to airport navigation and operations.

Seamless Upgrade to Smart FIDS
For over two decades, ADB SAFEGATE’s FIDS solution has been the navigational backbone of Heathrow, guiding passengers and staff efficiently from check-in desks and departure gates to baggage carousels. Heathrow recently transitioned to an advanced Smart FIDS, involving a seamless upgrade to 3,200 state-of-the-art displays positioned across its four terminals. This modernization, executed with minimal disruption and intricate planning, integrates smart 4K image displays that are environmentally considerate, offering substantial cost savings of approximately £2.25M over three years and reducing power consumption by 30%.

The leading-edge FIDS technology not only boosts operational efficiency by enhancing system reliability and reducing maintenance costs but also significantly improves the passenger experience. Enhanced viewing angles and the elimination of screen glare ensure all travelers can easily navigate through the airport, marking a crucial step in Heathrow’s pursuit of excellence.

Revolutionary RIDS Technology for Improved Turnaround Times
A further milestone was also reached with the successful deployment of the ADB SAFEGATE Pilot Display X (PDX) Ramp Information Display System (RIDS) across 81 stands at Terminal 5, primarily serving British Airways. This deployment, coupled with an upgraded ADB SAFEGATE Apron Manager system, introduces real-time updates on passenger and baggage status and incorporates “D Logic” for more accurate departure timings. As a result, ground staff and BA pilots can now access scheduled and adjusted departure times in 5, 10, and 15-minute intervals, significantly enhancing stand turnaround times.

The RIDS technology, provided by ADB SAFEGATE, features scrolling text messages for seamless communication with ground crews and pilots, supported by a new AIDX-Rest Interface in the Aipron Manager system for specific RIDS display. Achieving this level of operational integration required extensive collaboration, including innovative structural design for the PDX-RIDS screens, adherence to strict installation and safety protocols, and a commendable team.

A Visionary Approach to Airport Operations
Both the FIDS and RIDS projects illustrate Heathrow’s visionary approach to employing smart technology for improving the passenger experience and operational efficiency. The combined benefits of these systems—ranging from environmental considerations and cost savings to enhanced navigational aids and turnaround times—emphasize Heathrow’s commitment to sustainability, reliability, and superior service.

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.

Visit the WIPO Brand Database for country-specific registrations of the Airside 4.0® trademark.