The trials program was progressive, beginning with tabletop scenario sessions and advancing to live operational simulations. These included an Intermediate Trial with over 600 public volunteers and an Advanced Trial with more than 1,600 participants. Operational staff acted in their daily roles while members of the public simulated typical passenger scenarios, allowing the Port and PDX staff to gain familiarity with the new environment, test systems and processes, and observe passenger flows. These 'dress rehearsals' provided critical insights, enabling the resolution of potential issues before opening day and instilling confidence across all stakeholders. The success of this program ensured a smooth transition into the new terminal and preserved the opening day for celebration and recognition of this major achievement.
Implementing ORAT takes aviation projects to the next level by ensuring both existing issues and potential opportunities are identified early on. From start to finish, ORAT is designed to drive projects forward, remain cost-effective, and create a streamlined experience for the team and ultimately the future travelers and staff.
Starting ORAT early allows for rigorous testing of systems, processes, and facilities during the design phase that empowers project authorities to pinpoint and rectify issues promptly, preserving time and resources. Addressing issues and adaptations during the design phase also proves considerably more cost-effective than post-construction alterations. Early investments in ORAT translate into substantial long-term savings. And importantly, a well-structured ORAT process in the design phase optimizes resource allocation, minimizes disruptions, and enhances overall project efficiency for each team member.
Major aviation projects require the collaboration of all involved, and ORAT integration is designed to enhance stakeholder collaboration – from industry experts to regulatory bodies – guaranteeing the diverse needs and concerns are factored into the design and planning process. Effective stakeholder collaboration not only fosters a sense of ownership and buy-in but also supports familiarization throughout the project life cycle. This ensures that by the time the project reaches its opening phase, there are no surprises, and the team is well-prepared. Moreover, this collaborative approach allows peers to effectively 'sell' the changes and innovations, facilitating smoother transitions and greater acceptance of the new systems and processes.
While internal operations are key factors of ORAT, it’s a process that empowers the design of user-centric facilities, in this case, ensuring a busy traveler’s journey is smooth, satisfying, and safe. The initiation of ORAT in the design phase ensures that safety measures and security protocols are seamlessly integrated into the facility’s design, mitigating vulnerabilities and risks.
In the ever-changing world of major infrastructure development and increased travel, the role of ORAT cannot be overstated. By initiating ORAT early during the aviation design phase, major infrastructure development can transform itself from construction projects into efficient, user-friendly, and operationally superior entities.
As we consider the future of aviation infrastructure development, the question is not whether ORAT should be included but when it should be initiated. It is time for the aviation industry and all sectors to embrace ORAT as a strategic imperative that sets the foundation for successful infrastructure from the very beginning.
