News from March 2009

Airport gets ‘on board’ with latest technology from ICS Computing

Published: 27 March 2009

New system set to cut invoicing time in half.

Belfast International Airport has upgraded to a new flight management system from ICS Computing which is set to achieve major time and cost savings through improved information processing and place the airport ahead of its competitors in terms of operating efficiencies. 

The fully integrated system, which went live this month, has adopted the latest technology whilst retaining the same interface as the Airport's previous system, meaning that the switchover has been smooth and painless, with its 50 users already professing to be 'thrilled' with its processing capabilities.

The flight management system is linked into the airport's public display boards, Ceefax and the web, all of which must be updated with new information within one minute, so a timely, accurate and seamless information flow is essential.   With over 5 million passengers expected to pass through the airport this year, the system will be a vital tool in ensuring the smooth running of all its operations, according to Belfast International Airport's technical services manager Denis Brown.

"The flight management system is at the very heart of our business, so we have to be able to rely on it 100 per cent.  It's an essential communication tool which allows all airport staff - air traffic control, apron control, airport police and customs - to access real time information on each flight and coordinate a timely response.  So far we are absolutely delighted with the new system and expect its improved processing speed will save us one to two days per week on administration time - which in itself is really quite remarkable. 

"In addition, reports are now much faster and easier to access and we also anticipate cost reductions in terms of software and hardware maintenance; and as the system is fully flexible and scale-able it means we will be in a position to quickly respond to the demands of our fast-paced operating environment.  At Belfast International Airport we are committed to pioneering the latest technology to drive efficiencies and we expect other airports to follow our lead in adapting this kind of system."

Joe Black, project manager for ICS Computing, said:

"The system has been tailored to closely match the needs of BIA and is designed to offer measurable, consistent benefits over time.  Airlines are increasingly demanding new capabilities and we need to be one step ahead in meeting their demands.  For example - in the future people may be able to check in with mobile phones - so the system needs to be capable of responding to whatever the next aviation challenge may be.   We believe there is significant potential to roll this system out across other airports as it delivers tangible results over both the short and long term.  It is already proving to be a big success for BIA and they can be confident that ICS possesses the resources and capability to adapt the system over time as requirements change."