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The Rise of Sustainable Energies and Practices in 2023

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In 2023, the world witnessed a remarkable shift towards sustainability, particularly in the transportation sector. Airports and seaports, traditionally hubs of high energy consumption and environmental impact, have become pioneers in adopting eco-friendly practices. Join us as we revisit the most prevalent sustainable energies and practices in these sectors, highlighting their significance and encouraging further ecological mindfulness.

Sustainable Energy in Airports and Seaports

Solar Power: A Ray of Hope

Solar energy has emerged as a frontrunner in the sustainable energy revolution. Airports like Cochin International in India and Denver International in the USA have set exemplary standards. Cochin became the world’s first fully solar-powered airport, with a 40 MW solar plant. Similarly, seaports like Los Angeles have integrated solar power into their operations, significantly reducing their carbon footprint.

Harnessing the Wind

Wind energy, though less prevalent than solar power, plays a crucial role in sustainable practices. Boston Logan International Airport’s installation of wind turbines exemplifies this trend. The Port of Rotterdam, known for its innovative approaches, has also invested in wind energy projects, aligning with its renewable energy transition strategy.

The Geothermal Advantage

Geothermal energy, a less tapped but potent resource, is utilized in places like Zurich Airport for heating and cooling. The Port of Reykjavik in Iceland, leveraging its unique geothermal resources, stands out in this category.

Bioenergy and Hydrogen Fuel Cells: The New Frontiers

The shift to bioenergy is evident in Oslo Airport’s use of biofuels for ground operations. Similarly, hydrogen fuel cells are gaining traction, with Memphis International Airport experimenting with them for cargo tuggers. The Port of Antwerp’s exploration of hydrogen fuel cells for port equipment marks a significant step towards cleaner energy use.

Tidal and Wave Energy: Harnessing the Ocean’s Power

Seaports, particularly those like Orkney in Scotland, are harnessing tidal and wave energy, showcasing the untapped potential of ocean power.

Sustainable Practices in Airports and Seaports

Energy Efficiency: The First Step to Sustainability

Energy efficiency remains a cornerstone of sustainable practices. Changi Airport in Singapore and the Port of Singapore have implemented measures like efficient lighting and machinery, significantly reducing energy consumption.

Waste Management and Water Conservation: Essential Eco-Practices

San Francisco International Airport’s waste management program and Los Angeles International Airport’s water conservation efforts exemplify the commitment to sustainable resource management. The Port of Amsterdam’s advanced waste management systems and the Port of Hamburg’s water-saving technologies further underscore this commitment.

Sustainable Transportation: Moving Towards a Greener Tomorrow

Heathrow Airport’s encouragement of electric vehicles and the Port of Gothenburg’s investment in sustainable maritime transport solutions reflect the growing trend towards eco-friendly transportation.

Building a Greener Infrastructure

Green building standards are crucial for sustainable development. Hamad International Airport’s LEED certification and the Port of Vancouver’s environmentally friendly facilities set benchmarks in sustainable infrastructure.

Carbon Offsetting and Ecosystem Protection: Balancing Development with Nature

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport’s carbon offset programs and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport’s wildlife protection measures demonstrate a balanced approach to development and nature conservation.

Sustainable Procurement and Community Engagement: A Collective Responsibility

The Port of Barcelona’s sustainable procurement policies and the Port of Seattle’s community engagement initiatives highlight the importance of collective responsibility in achieving sustainability goals.

Embracing Digitalization for a Sustainable Future

The adoption of smart technologies, as seen in Singapore Airlines and the Port of Shanghai, is crucial for efficient and sustainable operations.

As we witness these inspiring examples of sustainable practices, it’s clear that every step towards sustainability, no matter how small, contributes to a larger impact on our planet. Airports and seaports, once seen as mere transit points, are now leading the way in ecological responsibility. Their commitment to sustainable energies and practices is not just a response to environmental challenges but a proactive move towards a more sustainable and resilient future.

Sustainable energies and practices adopted by airports and seaports in 2023 are not just innovations for the present; they are investments in our future. They remind us that with collective effort and technological advancement, a sustainable future is a reality within our grasp. The journey towards a greener future is a collective one, and it begins with individual choices.

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The Evolution of Airport Security: Goodbye to Liquids Restriction in Luggage

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Traveling by plane has always involved certain security rules, especially after the events of September 11, 2001. One of the most well-known restrictions is the requirement to remove liquids from luggage when passing through security checkpoints. However, this regulation is about to change thanks to technological innovation at airports. Let’s recall why this rule was established and how new technologies are transforming airport security procedures, making the travel experience easier for millions of people.

Airport Security: The Reason Behind Liquids Regulation at Airports

Traditionally, passengers have had to remove liquids from their luggage due to security concerns. These measures intensified after terrorist plots involving liquid explosives were discovered. As a result, authorities limited the amount of liquids passengers could carry in their carry-on luggage and required them to be presented in containers of up to 100 ml, placed in a transparent plastic bag.

Inconvenience for Travelers

This regulation, though necessary for security, has resulted in a slower and often frustrating travel experience. Removing liquids and electronic devices such as laptops for security inspections increases wait times in lines and can cause stress for passengers, especially during peak travel seasons.

Technological Advances in Airport Security

3D Scanners: A Game Changer

The good news is that technology is changing the game. New 3D X-ray scanners, capable of generating detailed images of the contents of suitcases, are being implemented at various airports. These scanners allow security officers to clearly see in three dimensions what each passenger is carrying, eliminating the need to remove liquids and laptops.

Innovation in Spanish Airports

A notable example of this innovation can be found in Spain. Starting in 2024, airports such as Barajas in Madrid and El Prat in Barcelona will begin using these 3D scanners. This technology not only streamlines the security process but also enhances the ability to detect potential threats.

Similar Technology in the United States

The United States has also been a pioneer in implementing this technology, with airports like Hartsfield-Jackson in Atlanta and Chicago O’Hare installing 3D scanners for faster and more efficient luggage inspection.

Benefits for Passengers

Reduced Wait Times

The most obvious benefit of this technology is a significant reduction in wait times. Passengers will no longer need to prepare their liquids and electronic devices for inspection, speeding up the security checkpoint process.

Improved Travel Experience

These technological advances also improve the overall travel experience. Less stress at security checkpoints means a calmer and more pleasant start to the journey.

The Future of Airport Security

Ongoing Innovation
The implementation of 3D scanners is just the beginning. Airports worldwide are continually exploring new technologies to enhance security and efficiency, such as biometric identification and remote luggage inspection.

Will Liquids Regulations Change?
Despite these advances, the current regulations on the amount of liquids allowed have not been modified. However, the ongoing evolution of technology could lead to changes in security policies in the future.

A Brighter and Safer Future for Travelers
The introduction of 3D scanners at airports is excellent news for travelers worldwide. This technology not only promises greater efficiency and convenience but also maintains security standards. With these advancements, the future of air travel looks faster, safer, and more enjoyable for everyone.

 

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The ACI Guide to Airports Worldwide

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In an effort to enhance airport efficiency globally, ACI World and ACI-North America have join forces and presented “Airport Capacity: Guidance on Airport Capacity Declaration.” This guidance document, developed in collaboration with Mott MacDonald Limited, provides clear guidelines in three key areas of airport operations: capacity assessment and declaration, governance and responsibilities, and capacity evaluation guidelines.

In an article published on ACI World’s blog, Philippe Villard, Vice President of Economic Policy at ACI-North America, and Franco Sartor, Manager of Policy Analysis at ACI World, underscore the importance of efficient airport operations and effective capacity utilization to enhance travelers’ experiences. This aspect becomes particularly crucial when demand far exceeds airport capacity.

 

What does the ACI Guide explains?

The document highlights fundamental principles shared in capacity assessment and declaration in airports with constraints. From capacity and service levels to objective capacity optimization and flexibility, all these aspects play a vital role in airport efficiency.

A crucial point addressed in the guidance is the significance of coordination and effective collaboration among all stakeholders at airports. Airports play a key role in successful capacity management, and the document outlines their responsibilities and the importance of consulting stakeholders to make final capacity declaration decisions.

Finally, the document provides detailed capacity evaluation guidelines tailored to the specific circumstances of each airport. Aspects such as runway capacity, apron capacity, terminal capacity, and environmental considerations are covered in detail.

 

How can you apply?

This resource represents a significant advancement for airports seeking to improve operations and deliver an exceptional experience to passengers. Interested in learning more? You can download this valuable guide for free at the following link and begin building a more efficient future in the aviation world.

Join us on this exciting journey towards greater optimization and success in the aviation industry! Check our blog for more.

Aviation Festival Americas 2023: Driving Innovation in the Aeronautical Industry

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The Aviation Festival Americas is a prestigious event that brings together leaders and visionaries in the aeronautical industry to discuss and showcase the latest advancements in technology, sustainability, and customer experience. This 2023 edition proved to be a landmark event for the aviation industry, and the GP Nauticals team is proud to have taken part in it.

 

As the most important event for the aviation industry in the Americas, the Aviation Festival Americas attracts top executives from airlines, airports, and technology providers across the region. The conference provides a platform for these leaders to share their insights, forge strategic alliances, and tackle the most pressing issues facing the aeronautical industry today.

 

Some of the most important topics during the event included AI and Machine Learning, Sustainability, Customer Experience and Airport Technology, as well as plenty of solutions with the goal of improving the aviation industry.

 

A Showcase of Innovation: GP Nauticals at the Aviation Festival Americas

 

At the Aviation Festival Americas, the GP Nauticals team participated and showcased their revolutionary AI and Face Recognition system designed to transform the aeronautical industry. The cutting-edge technology promises to improve airport security, streamline passenger processing, and enhance overall customer experience. By leveraging advanced algorithms, the system can quickly and accurately identify passengers, allowing for a seamless and secure boarding process.

 

It was also a great opportunity to present the solutions of our Suit AIMS, which include airport administration management system, digitalizing fueling services, keep record of our passengers, invoice and billing, and many more.

 

The team thanked the organizers and their fellow participants for making the event a resounding success. A special shoutout to Falco Systems and SpaceBot, whose collaboration with GP Nauticals is driving innovation and excellence in the aviation industry. By working together, we are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in aviation, developing groundbreaking solutions that will shape the future of air travel.

 

Moreover, the Aviation Festival Americas provided an ideal platform for fostering partnerships and collaborations. We had the privilege of engaging with other forward-thinking companies, exploring potential synergies, and laying the foundation for future collaborations that will drive progress in the aviation sector.

 

As we reflect on our experience at the Aviation Festival Americas, we are filled with gratitude and enthusiasm. This event has not only strengthened our position in the industry but also reinvigorated our commitment to pushing boundaries and delivering excellence.

 

Together, let us continue to drive innovation, shape the future, and propel the aviation industry to new heights.

Ready to Fly is now a reality

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The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has been working on a project called One ID, under the premise of allowing passengers to arrive at the airport “ready to fly”. This means that they will be able to completely digitize the check-in experience at airports by implementing a biometric process with zero contact.

 

The objective of this initiative is to create a more streamlined process with a pre-trip information exchange, where the passenger will have to demonstrate that they meet the requirements for their trip and then identify themselves at established points at airport facilities through biometric recognition.

 

One Id seeks to standardize the digitization processes of all airlines, airports, and governments to provide a seamless experience that is easy for travelers to integrate and use.

 

The implementation of this type of technology will provide multiple benefits and clearly, the main one is that now passengers will not have to be confused with a pile of documents. They will have to share only the minimum necessary data with their digital identity for airlines, airports, and governments. 

 

In this way, when passengers arrive at airport facilities, they will already have their traveler data and itinerary, so they can avoid long lines by just presenting themselves to the biometric reader and identifying themselves. 

 

Other stakeholders that will also benefit from this new process are the airlines and airports which will be able to count on the efficiency of the processes and the reduction of time spent on manual identification of each passenger, which will reduce costs by relying on automated systems and focus their efforts on providing added value to their customers.

 

In terms of security, the One ID system will arguably help strengthen borders and make it easier for governments to receive accurate passenger information, as well as reduce the number of passengers who are inadmissible for presenting inadequate, insufficient, or false documentation.

 

Currently, many airlines have been working on digitizing these processes that allow passengers to board without presenting physical documentation, but IATA intends to create a standardized system that digitizes the admissibility of each traveler, so that when the passenger shares their “OK to Fly” status with the airline, they can automatically bypass all document checks within the airport facilities.

 

Ultimately, travelers want and need technology for their trips, to ensure better treatment, more efficiency, better services, and a considerable reduction in the time spent on controls. So they are undoubtedly willing to share their most sensitive information to support the progress that these systems will offer in the future and from which the industry as a whole will benefit.

 

However, the new standards are focused on protecting the data of passengers, who at all times remain in control of their data and credentials, sharing only verified approvals and without any intermediaries. In addition, this is not mandatory, so it will be an option if the passenger wishes to opt-out of this process and use manual verification.

 

Total Airport Management Systems

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Nowadays, technological transformation is a process that has been very present in all industries. However, in the airport sector it has made it possible to alleviate a series of deficiencies that had been occurring both externally and internally and that were slowing down its processes and hindering the development of the sector.

Having a total airport management system benefits travelers who spend long hours in airport facilities to check their luggage. Go through border controls and wait for the aircraft to be ready to finally make the flight, since this is only a small part of what an airport operates.

Optimizing each one of its operations, such as security, both of facilities and travelers, concessions, routes, airlines, administration and check-in, suppliers, among others. 

It guarantees an articulated and collaborative decision making process, where everyone involved has first hand information and in real time, which enables a great improvement in efficiency and avoids important monetary losses.

The main objective of an airport management system is to interconnect and integrate most of the information handled within the airport, thus ensuring the maximum flow of information on its operations, management and security, which results in a more efficient final service for travelers and more profitable for the airport.

The number of passengers increases year after year, which can end up collapsing airport operations and facilities, but building additional infrastructure is not always the most appropriate solution, due to high costs, permitting and development times; While implementing technological tools that help optimize the use of the infrastructure and its resources leads to a much lower investment, more controlled integration times and great benefits by considerably reducing the time aircraft spend on the ground, reducing fuel consumption, emissions and especially flight delays, something that passengers will surely appreciate.

A good airport management system brings together the operational complexities of airlines, airports and suppliers, encouraging the development and evolution of the industry, allowing a modular growth according to the traffic forecasts and commercial strategies of the interested parties, and all this thanks to the information management provided by this type of system.

Having real-time access to all the data derived from airport operations creates opportunities for improvement in very short periods of time that without this type of systems would take years to collect and analyze, to finally move on to a decision-making process where each participant will look after its own interests and not those of the community in general.

Currently many airports are looking to implement airport management systems and already in the market there is a significant amount of specialized software that in turn consist of several independent systems such as passenger check-in, passenger control, aeronautical fuel suppliers, among others that allow organizations to assemble a customized system that can integrate perfectly with their current software without having to paralyze operations or make large investments of money, time and knowledge transfer.

As we have mentioned in other articles, the software development company GP Nauticals has on the market a series of administrative systems for the aviation sector that separately can work to optimize a particular niche and optimize its operations, but that together create a robust administrative system that includes all the processes and port operations. If you want to know more about their range of products I invite you to visit their website. www.gpnauticals.com 

 

New challenges after COVID

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Now that everything seems to be back to normal, the whole world is preparing to overcome the impact of Covid-19. 

In many countries, routine activities are already taking place as normal, without the need to wear masks. Others are enjoying festivals and concerts, but better yet, travel restrictions have been put aside to embrace the summer. 

Airports around the world are preparing to reach pre-pandemic traffic levels. However, they have faced unexpected challenges such as staff shortages and high passenger demand that have led to delays, cancellations and long queues. 

But this was not an impediment for people to enjoy their vacations after two years of confinement. 

Goodbye to controls… 

Thanks to the leveling of contagions and the good sanitary management in airport structures, countries such as Spain have announced the lifting of COVID controls, it will no longer be necessary to present the COVID passport or the traveler’s form, both at airports and those arriving in the country by cruise ships. 

However, requirements such as PCR tests performed 48 hours in advance and vaccination cards are still required. This is to ensure the safety and welfare of each passenger. Likewise, masks will still be used during flights.

In spite of this, the lifting of the controls is a great step to restructure international schedules and reopen the operation of routes that were still stopped. 

In addition, passengers are guaranteed safety and confidence during flights and stays at the air terminals.

This is why good times are ahead for the aeronautical and port sector. Where challenges will cease to have a negative connotation, to carry out new projects and improve the travel experience of each passenger. 

A reliable alternative… 

In order to accompany the challenges that may arise, GP Nauticals has developed within the SUITE, a specialized software called PAX AIMS, which is ideal to avoid long waiting lines.  In addition, it is capable of auditing the number of passengers passing through the airport facilities, in order to automate processes and optimize check-in and collection times. 

All this thanks to the checkpoints that will be deployed at the airports, which will improve the travel experience from the moment they set foot in the facilities. 

PAX AIMS can be integrated with other SUITE software according to the needs of each customer. If you want to know more information about our products, click here. 

Airport planning and development

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The preparation of a strategic plan to improve and develop airport facilities involves a lot of variants, such as the levels of airport demand and traffic or safety, which is undoubtedly one of the most predominant issues, or the number of rules and regulations that these entities must follow.

 

The design of this planning should focus on generating a balance between the airside installations and the terminals or ground services. So, involving each affected group is vital for the success of the planning.

 

An airport installation is not only based on the landing or take-off of aircraft or the boarding or landing of passengers. We also consider each supplier and service provider, such as refueling, maintenance, and services of installations or aircraft, cargo transportation services, and even parking for aircraft that are not in service.

 

For this reason, it is important to make a strategic plan for the development of these facilities. Such as an evaluation of environmental issues, design, financing, legal terms, and political decisions that may affect the development of the airport.

 

In addition, one of the first actions to implement in a development plan correctly is to optimize as much as possible the existing facilities in terms of operations, processes, and technology. Especially those areas that will be in charge of receiving all the traffic derived from the terminals or areas in expansion.

 

For this reason, one of the main recommendations is that airport installations should have an administrative management system that, thanks to automation, collection, and management of information in real-time, allows for an optimization of resources and secure and efficient handling of data.

 

Nowadays, software exists in a specialized way for the aeronautical sector that allows managing a digital transformation process in the industry without major inconveniences or very high investment values. 

 

For example, software such as GP Nauticals’ AIMS Suite can handle administrative, and financial tasks of port facilities, generate bills and manage payments, digitalize services such as fuel dispatch or perform a detailed control of passengers, according to each one of its products. 

 

All of this with support in the cloud and analytics available in real-time that can assist in more assertive decision making.

 

Technologies for airport management

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In our articles, we talk about the digital transformation in the airport sector and the benefits it brings, to  passengers and also to the administration. 

The passenger’s opinion is more critical, from the entrance to an airport, the user becomes the judge who will give the final verdict, to evaluate improvements in the airport sector. 

This is reflected in the results provided year after year by Skytrax, which not only rewards airlines but also airports. 

That is why, we see that airports continue to break new ground and go beyond barriers to provide comfort, confidence, and punctuality from start to finish. 

A sample of what we talked is the Passenger Terminal Expo, which this year returned to Paris to bring it new trends, innovations, and materials to improve the experience at airports worldwide. 

Technological proposals on demand…

This year has the particularity that the technological leap is imminent. From Artificial Intelligence proposals, intelligent surveillance, and interactive kiosks to easily find boarding gates and terminals. 

Intelligent baggage handling logistics and, many more offerings are just some of the challenges that port management will face in the coming years. 

This results in a wide range of options to further improve the technological development structures at large airports. 

And it gives rise to those airports that are still in the process of development, which can join these endless technological options that ensure sustainability, durability, and confidence over time. 

That is why, at GP Nauticals we rely on developing specialized software to provide the port administration, a window that allows us to manage payments, collections, and everything related to billing and administration in a simple way. 

In addition, our SUITE is integrated to improve the performance and management of an airport, thanks to the analysis and reports that allow you to visualize results firsthand. 

Meet PAY AIMS, AERO AIMS, and all the SUITE that GP Nauticals have to facilitate and optimize the time of administrative procedures. 

Technology and Big Data improve the experience at airports around the world

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These are times of great changes and with them, we have to adapt and do things differently. However, I would dare to say that the airport sector has rethought from many angles the way it had been operating and providing its services. Now we can find “super modern” airports where the priority is to provide a positive travel experience by making passenger traffic more efficient, but how did they achieve this?

The development of specific technology for the industry, and big data have been a fundamental key to having more efficient airport management. Since the analysis of this data allows them to predict and measure the movement of passengers, determine schedules, routes, and travelers’ crowds to manage resources more optimally.

Airport technology trends aimed at improving the experience and satisfaction of travelers are leveraged on mobile devices supported by the cloud, which allows modernizing the operational and logistical environment of airport facilities.

A good example of this type of technology is Seeking, implemented in Barajas T4 and El Prat T1. Which allows the airport to know how passengers move around its facilities, even if they visit the Duty-Free and VIP lounges if they connect to the airport WI-FI and even send relevant information. In this way, they provide an anonymous digital identity and track each of their actions, being able to analyze the behavior of their passengers and detect new business niches.

The operational evolution of airports with the analysis of this data in real-time allows greater planning in terms of infrastructure management, which translates into greater convenience for the traveler. 

If a flight arrives at the airport and has a later connection, it could be more easily planned to provide a nearby gate to avoid travelers from transit long distances. Thus shortening the waiting time of the plane on the ground optimizing the service and providing a better user experience and this can only be achieved with data collection and analysis.

Currently and as mentioned above, much-specialized software is being developed for the aviation industry, as is the case of GP Nauticals Suite, which focuses mainly on optimizing airport management and facilitating the collection and analysis of information in each of its areas and with minimal investment. 

If you want to learn more about GP Nauticals and see all the products available, you can do so by visiting their website or contacting a specialist in the area.