Owais Crawford
Airport collaborative decision-making (A-CDM) is a joint project between ACI Europe, EUROCONTROL, IATA (International Air Transport Association), and CANSO (Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation). It is a systematic design approach that aims to improve the efficiency and resilience of airport operations by optimizing the use of resources and improving the predictability of air traffic. A-CDM encourages airport partners and the network manager to work collaboratively and make joint decisions by exchanging relevant, accurate, and timely information. This results in improved flight operations, benefits for workers and passengers, and a reduction in the cost of ground movements, leading to financial savings and a positive environmental impact.
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What You'll Learn
Stakeholder collaboration
Airports are complex ecosystems with thousands of employees, each serving distinct yet interconnected roles, employed by a myriad of organisations. From airlines to retail outlets, security agencies to maintenance crews, these entities are unique cogs in a complex machine, collectively orchestrating the airport's operations.
As such, airport planning and design must involve collaboration between a wide range of stakeholders to ensure that the infrastructure is efficient, appropriate, affordable, and adaptable to future changes. This includes reviewing infrastructure plans with key stakeholders, particularly airline users, to assess operational and passenger impacts.
For example, the design of a new terminal may involve collaboration between architects, engineers, planners, and airport authorities to ensure that the design is functional, aesthetically pleasing, and within budget. It may also involve collaboration with airlines and ground handling services to ensure that the terminal meets their operational needs and improves the passenger experience.
Another example is the implementation of new technologies, such as biometrics and contactless self-service solutions, which require collaboration between IT specialists, airport operators, and security agencies to ensure that the technology is integrated effectively and securely.
In recent years, there has been a growing focus on sustainability and resilience in airport design, driven by lessons learned from crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and environmental concerns. This involves collaboration between airport planners, environmental experts, and sustainability specialists to incorporate design principles and innovations that strengthen resilience and promote sustainable practices.
Overall, stakeholder collaboration in airport design is essential to ensure that the final product meets the needs of all involved parties and provides a seamless, efficient, and positive experience for passengers.
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Technological innovation
Airport Collaborative Decision-Making (A-CDM) is a concept that has been implemented in airports worldwide to improve operational efficiency and resilience. A-CDM encourages collaboration and transparency among various stakeholders, including airport operators, aircraft operators, ground handlers, and Air Traffic Control (ATC). This collaborative approach optimizes resource utilization, enhances predictability, and reduces delays. Technological innovations play a pivotal role in enabling and enhancing these processes.
One of the key technological innovations in A-CDM is the utilization of data exchange and automated processes. Real-time information sharing between different stakeholders is facilitated by digital platforms and automated processes. This seamless data exchange includes accurate and timely information about aircraft turn-round and pre-departure processes, target take-off times, and other operational details. This information sharing improves the predictability of operations, enables precise scheduling of take-offs, and minimizes delays.
Simulation tools are another technological innovation leveraged in A-CDM. These tools enable stakeholders to model different scenarios and assess the operational impact of new technologies, facilities, or processes. By running simulations, stakeholders can make more informed decisions, optimize infrastructure utilization, and enhance overall airport efficiency.
Additionally, technological advancements have led to the development and implementation of innovative solutions, such as touchless self-service options for passengers and enhanced air ventilation and filtration systems. These solutions not only improve the passenger experience by offering convenience and efficiency but also address health and safety concerns, particularly in the context of pandemic resilience.
The integration of new technologies and digital tools has transformed the way airports operate and manage their resources. For instance, EUROCONTROL's Network Manager takes the A-CDM concept further by promoting even deeper integration of airports with the network. This integration enhances collaboration between partners and supports the implementation of new concepts and complementary solutions.
Furthermore, technological innovations have also influenced the design and construction of airport infrastructure. Airport design has become a complex and collaborative endeavor, involving various organizations and experts. For example, Móz Designs, in collaboration with RS&H Architects, created a unique and engaging lounge environment at the Melbourne Orlando International Airport, showcasing their signature Laser-Cut Stream pattern. Additionally, the new Terminal 2 at Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport is renowned for its nature-centric design, featuring lush landscapes that offer a unique passenger experience. These examples illustrate how technological innovations and collaborative efforts converge to shape the airport of tomorrow.
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Design challenges
Airport design is a complex and challenging endeavour, requiring the coordination of numerous stakeholders and the consideration of various factors. Here are some key design challenges that airport planners and designers face:
Stakeholder Collaboration and Coordination
Airports are complex ecosystems with numerous stakeholders, including airlines, retail outlets, security agencies, maintenance crews, and more. Effective collaboration and coordination between these diverse entities are essential for the smooth operation of the airport. A lack of coordination and transparent communication between stakeholders can lead to a poor customer experience and increased stress on staff. Airport collaborative decision-making (A-CDM) is a concept that aims to improve collaboration and transparency by encouraging the exchange of accurate and timely information between airport partners.
Technological Advancements
Technology plays a significant role in airport design and operations. The rapid evolution of technology, such as the increasing use of biometrics and contactless self-service solutions, improves efficiency, enhances the passenger experience, and optimises infrastructure utilisation. Airport designers must stay abreast of technological advancements and incorporate them into their designs to ensure the airport's functionality and adaptability to future changes. This includes the use of simulation tools to model different scenarios and understand the impact of new technologies.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
Environmental sustainability is an emerging issue in airport design. Airports must strive to reduce their environmental footprint and incorporate design principles that promote resilience to future pandemics and support the wellbeing of building occupants. Additionally, the impact of aircraft noise and emissions on surrounding communities must be considered, driving the need for innovative solutions to mitigate these effects.
Flexibility and Adaptability
Airport infrastructure must be designed to be flexible and adaptable to accommodate future changes and evolving needs. This includes considering potential increases in passenger volume, new technologies, and external challenges such as environmental changes or geopolitical instability. Resiliency planning is critical, as demonstrated by the recent pandemic, which highlighted the importance of designing airports that can withstand and quickly recover from crises.
Accessibility and Inclusivity
Airports must prioritise accessibility and inclusivity in their designs to ensure that all passengers, regardless of disabilities or limitations, can easily access and navigate the facility. The principles of universal design should be incorporated to create an airport that is inclusive and compliant with regulatory requirements.
Efficient Utilisation of Resources
Optimising the use of available resources, both material and human, is essential to improving operational efficiency. This includes efficient utilisation of airport airside infrastructure, reducing ground congestion, and minimising delays. Airport designers must consider ways to streamline passenger flows and reduce walking distances, and optimise the layout of terminals, gates, and stands to enhance punctuality and the overall passenger experience.
These design challenges highlight the complex and multifaceted nature of airport design, requiring a holistic and systematic approach that considers the interconnectivity of various stakeholders, operational aspects, and the evolving needs of the aviation industry.
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Environmental sustainability
Airport collaborative decision-making (A-CDM) is a concept that encourages various airport partners, such as airport operators, aircraft operators, ground handlers, and ATC, to work together transparently and collaboratively. This approach aims to improve efficiency and resilience, optimise resource utilisation, and enhance the predictability of air traffic.
Sustainable Transportation
Airports can promote the use of sustainable transportation options, such as electric vehicles, bike-sharing programs, and public transit within their premises. Providing dedicated infrastructure, such as electric vehicle charging stations and bike racks, encourages eco-friendly choices. Airports can also offer incentives for using electric or hybrid vehicles, such as discounted parking fees or access to exclusive facilities.
Waste Management
Airports can implement holistic waste reduction, reuse, and recycling initiatives. Structured waste management programs can be developed, focusing on efficient waste collection and disposal systems. Clear signage and awareness campaigns can educate staff and passengers on proper waste disposal practices, encouraging active participation in recycling campaigns and waste sorting programs.
Water Conservation
Water-saving technologies, such as low-flow fixtures and smart irrigation systems, can reduce water consumption within airport facilities. Exploring alternative water sources, such as rainwater harvesting and greywater reuse systems, adds to sustainability by minimising reliance on traditional water supplies. Regular water audits help identify areas for further efficiency.
Energy Generation
Airports can adopt renewable energy solutions, such as solar airport parking, to generate energy while efficiently utilising space. Solar-covered parking structures, for example, can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to sustainability goals.
Design and Construction
Airports can embrace a circular design philosophy, creating environmentally conscious spaces. A 360-degree lifecycle approach to design, construction, and operation allows for the reuse of materials, lowering lifetime emissions and retaining the value of building products. Materials passports enable the adoption of a circular economy approach, reducing environmental impact.
Collaboration
Airports must collaborate with various entities, including local transportation authorities, conservation organisations, and stakeholders, to balance economic growth with environmental conservation. Working together, they can address challenges posed by environmental changes and promote sustainable practices.
By incorporating sustainability into their operations, airports can achieve a balanced business model, enhancing economic stability, increasing social benefits, and reducing their environmental footprint.
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Customer experience
Airport Collaborative Decision-Making (A-CDM) is a major initiative aimed at improving the efficiency and resilience of airport operations. By encouraging transparency and collaboration between airport partners, such as airport operators, aircraft operators, ground handlers, and Air Traffic Control (ATC), A-CDM optimises the use of resources and enhances the predictability of air traffic. This results in improved departure and arrival punctuality, better utilisation of airport infrastructure, and reduced ground congestion.
The implementation of A-CDM has benefits for both airport workers and passengers. With A-CDM, airlines and handling agents have access to up-to-date information, enabling them to plan their work more efficiently, reduce the cost of ground movements, and improve overall service. Passengers, on the other hand, experience better punctuality, minimised missed connections, and enhanced service during disruptions.
A-CDM also plays a role in reducing environmental impact by improving the efficiency of airport operations and potentially reducing the size of building footprints. Additionally, A-CDM supports societal priorities by promoting universal design principles that ensure access for all, regardless of disabilities or other limitations.
To further enhance the customer experience, airports are embracing holistic design approaches that extend beyond their immediate realm. This includes integrating with multi-modal travel options, streamlining digital platforms, and ensuring passengers are well-informed. During irregular operation events (IROP), maintaining coordination, transparency, and communication becomes crucial to providing a seamless passenger experience and reducing stress on staff.
The design of airport terminals and infrastructure also significantly impacts the customer experience. For example, the new Terminal 2 at Bengaluru's Kempegowda International Airport incorporates nature and biodiversity, creating a unique and green passenger experience. Other airports are investing in expansion projects to increase their capacity and enhance their facilities, ultimately improving the overall customer experience.
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Frequently asked questions
A-CDM is a joint project between ACI Europe, EUROCONTROL, IATA (International Air Transport Association), and CANSO (Civil Air Navigation Services Organisation). It aims to improve the efficiency and resilience of airport operations by optimizing the use of resources and improving the predictability of air traffic.
A-CDM encourages airport partners (airport operators, aircraft operators, ground handlers, and ATC) and the Network Manager to work collaboratively and exchange accurate and timely information. This seamless data exchange requires the implementation of a series of operational procedures and automated processes.
A-CDM improves departure and arrival punctuality, efficient use of stands, gates, and terminals, optimized use of airport infrastructure, and reduced ground congestion. It also reduces the cost of ground movements, leading to financial savings and a reduced environmental impact.
By implementing A-CDM, passengers have access to additional information about their flights, resulting in better punctuality, fewer missed connections, and improved service during disruptions.
A-CDM is fully implemented in 33 airports across Europe, including Amsterdam, Barcelona, Berlin Brandenburg, Brussels, Copenhagen, and Frankfurt.
