London Gatwick is trialling new Smart Stand technology, which could revolutionise the way aircraft turns are managed at the airport.
The ambitious, first-of-its-kind trial which is being run with London Gatwick’s largest airline easyJet, enables a Turn Coordinator (TCO) to manage an aircraft turn from a control room, record turn events automatically and apply AI to predict when the plane is ready to leave.
It is hoped the new Smart Stand technology could enhance safety procedures and improve stand utilisation and efficiencies of the airport’s day-to-day operations.
By allowing jet bridge operators to manage aircraft turns without needing to attend every arriving aircraft, the Smart Stand has the potential to enable consistently fast turn arounds and help maintain punctuality.
The technology also has the potential to enhance the staff experience, with TCOs being able to more efficiently and effectively manage passenger arrivals from one central location and automating processes with easier to use reporting tools.
Anti-collision control technology could also further reduce the risk of potential damage to an aircraft from possible jet-bridge impact.
The first live trial took place on 6 May and is expected to run until next summer.
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