Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) has become the first airport in Germany to use artificial intelligence to optimise aircraft handling.
Flughafen Berlin Brandenburg GmbH is using Assaia’s intelligent Digital TurnaroundControl system to improve handling processes on BER’s apron.
This system uses live cameras and self-learning, AI-based software to analyse aircraft handling in real-time. It then makes recommendations to enable the Airport Control Centre (ACC) to respond efficiently to delays or deviations.
Aletta von Massenbach, Chief Executive Officer of Flughafen Berlin Brandenburg GmbH said:We are delighted to be the first airport in Germany to put this innovative, AI-based software into operation today. Digitalisation is not an end in itself, but should create added value. With Digital Turnaround, we as an airport are contributing to the more efficient use of the infrastructure, more stable handling by process partners, therefore also improving the travel experience for passengers. The software solution also uses AI to help our employees maintain an overview of the parallel, diverse, time-critical processes and make the right decisions.
In the first phase of this rollout, 16 handling positions close to the terminal have been equipped with cameras and connected to the system. A further 33 positions will also be added over the summer.
This will allow work processes at the aircraft to be optimised, resulting in greater stability in the flight schedule and increased punctuality.
Dr Volker Wissing, Federal Minister for Digital and Transport said:We need artificial intelligence in aviation to remain competitive at international level. This is the only way we can react to staff shortages in a targeted manner, optimise the use of limited infrastructure and, in doing so, reduce costs in the long term. I am delighted that the capital airport is one of the pioneers in this area and one of the first in the world to use AI for aircraft handling. Digital technologies are key to dealing with the growth in air traffic and enabling smooth handling in the future, even at peak times.
