Airport operator Finavia is to implement Amadeus’ cloud-based airport operational database (AODB) at Helsinki Airport and 19 regional airports across Finland.
The value of an AODB is directly proportional to the quality and timeliness of the data it contains. Traditionally, an AODB receives data in batches from Air Traffic Control and airlines on an ad hoc basis. However, by implementing a single cloud-based solution that’s tightly integrated with airline systems, Finavia will benefit from automated real-time updates to flight information as soon as airlines initiate changes. This will ensure high accuracy levels and will help airport stakeholders better allocate resources and respond to the needs of airlines and passengers.
“Rolling out this new capability across Finavia’s airports will significantly improve our operational efficiency, helping us better collaborate with our airline partners to improve on-time performance for passengers,” said Finavia CIO Leyla Akgez-Laakso.
With a detailed understanding and visibility of passengers’ onward connections, the Amadeus AODB also supports Finavia to better allocate arriving aircraft to the right gate.
Yannick Beunardeau, vice president airport IT and airline operations, EMEA, Amadeus, added: “Amadeus already manages data for about 95% of the airlines that operate at Finavia airports, so we’re in a unique position to provide Finavia and its stakeholders with access to accurate, real-time data about flight plans and passenger connections. This deployment is a great example of an ambitious airport company looking to digitally transform and deliver closer collaboration with its airline partners.”
The modernisation sees Finavia become one of the first airport companies to run its AODB from the cloud, with a true multi-airport approach that automatically cascades operational changes across the operator’s airports. For example, when a flight departs Helsinki for Oulu, the unique aircraft registration number is automatically made available at Oulu, so the airport can allocate the aircraft to the correct gate on arrival, based on its subsequent onward flight. This common situational awareness across the network improves efficiency, reduces manual workload, and gives Finavia an edge, Amadeus said.
With a cloud approach, the AODB can be accessed from any device using a fixed, Wi-Fi or mobile connection so ground handlers working airside can access up-to-the-moment information when they need it. Finavia’s management can also access the real-time view of the group’s complete operations from any device with an internet connection, while IT teams benefit from reduced maintenance and less on-site hardware.
The transformation is already underway, with the switch to Amadeus AODB taking place in a phased approach across the 20 Finnish airports over the coming year.
