Heathrow Airport has introduced Heathrow Explorer, a brand-new mapping and data platform that aims to both modernise workflows and strengthen operations across the airport.
The new system, designed and developed by Esri UK’s professional services team in partnership with Syprosoft, 1Spatial and GeoJobe, aims to provide a real-time, single view of infrastructure and assets, enabling teams responsible to make decisions based on the data available.
Using interactive maps and dashboards, the system brings together previously separated technical and operational information on over 500,000 assets, with the initial launch set to include applications for up to 3,000 staff across Engineering, Operations, Fire Service, Property, Retail and airport third parties – including airlines.
Information is collated across roughly 300 different layers of information, and utilises Esri UK’s GIS (Geographic Information System), which aims to replace outdated legacy software. The mapping system is hoped to enable the activation of Heathrow’s ‘digital engineer’ strategy, with engineers now able to quickly access data relating to the airport’s asset base from any location.
The system’s introduction forms part of the airport’s wider Asset Management and Compliance Programme, which is focused on renewing and maintaining Heathrow’s critical infrastructure, including runways, terminals, security and baggage to improve operational performance and the passenger experience.
Gavin Payne, Director of Engineering and Baggage at Heathrow Airport, said:Location intelligence is becoming a core capability in how we achieve Heathrow’s asset management and operational goals.
Our new Esri platform is making it easier for colleagues to access and use the information they need, improving everyday efficiency, supporting better decision-making and helping build a more resilient airport.
The very-first application to go live was Winter Resilience, which aims to supply airfield teams with real-time updates on airside snow clearance or de-icing activity. By replacing manual workflows using printed maps, the new tool seeks to give teams one single operational picture on handheld devices, enabling the dispatch of the nearest available clearance team and instant tracking of progress.
Elsewhere, an example of the new application includes a new system designed for the fire services team, which provides live information on all water assets, such as hydrant and water network availability including all 72 miles of Heathrow’s fire mains. The new system will allow fire crews to access maps and graphical information about assets from mobile devices in an effort to improve incident response and future scenario planning.
The new geospatial system has also been extended to major contractors working on Heathrow’s asset management and compliance programme in order to both enhance collaboration and help to streamline construction projects. Elsewhere, a new tool has also gone live that aims to help manage the airport’s noise and vortex compensation and repairs scheme for neighbouring properties.
Future developments include applications for the new Heathrow Expansion Programme and the use of Esri Indoor GIS to improve terminal navigation for passengers and staff on smartphones.
PeteHeathrow is demonstrating what next generation airport geospatial systems look like.
By unifying spatial data to streamline workflows, the airport is creating a digital foundation that will fuel innovation for years to come and keep delivering a world class passenger experience.
