With traveler demand fluctuating over the past few years, many larger airports have responded to the need for scalable and agile solutions for passenger processing through cloud-based technology. However, cloud-based technology does not only benefit larger airports, it allows smaller airports to benefit from modern technology without the need for extensive on-site IT capabilities. It’s in this context that Port Hedland International Airport, based in a remote area of Western Australia, has decided to implement Amadeus ACUS for a more flexible and responsive approach to technology.
Common use passenger processing technology in the cloud will allow Port Hedland to simplify its passenger services and increase flexibility. It will also facilitate better collaboration within the airport, as all stakeholders from airport to airline and ground handling staff can access critical passenger handling applications from anywhere, using an internet connection. This includes the deployment of passenger systems and tools to off-terminal and off-airport locations, a strategy which could be implemented to reduce queues at the terminal and improve the service offered to passengers.
Moreover, the technology will empower airline agents with the tools they need to deliver a more personalized service to passengers. From the airport’s perspective, the need for dedicated equipment per airline has been removed, meaning Port Hedland International Airport can use its terminal space more efficiently, and create a smoother passenger flow from curb-to-gate.
The move comes as part of the airport’s terminal upgrade and continued investment in modernizing its infrastructure with start-of-the-art technology.
Dave Batic, chief executive officer, Port Hedland International Airport said, “With what we’ve experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for agile airport operations is clear. Despite the impact to aviation, we’re pleased to see passengers returning quickly to our airport. Looking ahead, our investment in both the terminal redesign more broadly and Amadeus ACUS will future-proof our operations, enabling us to harness the flexibility of the cloud and add new innovations to benefit passengers, such as off-terminal and off-airport check-in.”
Sarah Samuel, SVP Airport and Airline Operations, APAC, Amadeus adds, “This project is a great example of how the benefits of cloud solutions can meet the needs of airports of all sizes. Despite being a remote airport in far northwestern Australia, Port Hedland is committed to investing in its passenger services and we’re pleased to support its vision for more efficient and innovative passenger services.”
The move will see Port Hedland International Airport become one of the first regional airports in Australia and New Zealand to embrace the cloud for common use check-in and boarding systems, which will give it an edge when it comes to passenger processing and sustainability. The technology modernization means the airport has been able to retire traditional workstations and replace them with modern thin-clients, which are ten times more energy efficient. Thin-client devices are simple, low-power, computers that provide an interface to the cloud, where computing tasks are undertaken by more efficient servers.
Amadeus ACUS is now deployed at nearly one hundred airports around the world of different shapes and sizes, helping deliver increased cyber security and flexibility that supports the industry to improve the passenger experience.
