Heathrow Airport has selected the AIRHART Platform as its new digital backbone. The system is supplied by Smarter Airports, a joint venture between Copenhagen Airports and Netcompany.
The move reflects a shift in how Heathrow coordinates operational processes across its terminals and airside activities.
AIRHART is designed as an orchestration platform that integrates operational data and workflows across airport systems. The platform supports greater visibility of activities, improved coordination among stakeholders and the introduction of predictive analytics tools aimed at anticipating disruptions.
Netcompany will be responsible for its implementation and ongoing development.
Heathrow Airport, airside, aircraft taking off at sunset, runway signs in foreground, February 2006.
This implementation places Heathrow alongside other airports, including Copenhagen Airport and Munich Airport, which have adopted platform-based digital architectures as part of broader programmes focused on data-led operations and artificial intelligence.
Daniel Ezban, Chief Executive Officer of Smarter Airports and Partner in Netcompany, said:Heathrow’s decision to select AIRHART is a milestone for Smarter Airports and for the airport technology market. With Copenhagen, Munich, and now Heathrow, digitally leading airports are clearly moving towards platform-first strategies that orchestrate the complexity of modern operations. We are proud to partner with Heathrow on this transformation and to validate AIRHART as the next-generation digital backbone for airport operations.
Under the multi-year programme, the AIRHART deployment will underpin several operational capabilities at Heathrow. These include the replacement of the airport’s Airport Operational Database with a new data platform, enhancements to Airport Collaborative Decision Making processes to support coordination across the airport community, and the introduction of a predictive Airport Operations Plan aligned with international standards.
The programme also involves Heathrow adopting an Airport Operations Orchestration Platform model, intended to allow the airport to scale capacity, introduce new processes and incorporate advanced technologies as they develop. Airport officials said the approach could support more efficient use of infrastructure and contribute to maintaining passenger services as demand changes.
Javier Echave, Chief Operating Officer, Heathrow Airport, said:As one of the world’s busiest airports and the UK's only hub, it is essential that the technology which sits behind our operations can withstand the test of time, not only serving us effectively today but also positioning us strongly for the future. With that in mind, we're delighted to be partnering with Smarter Airports and Netcompany, using the AIRHART system which will provide us with a flexible, integrated platform to orchestrate critical processes with. This programme will play a central role behind the scenes to ensure we continue delivering for both our passengers and customers in the years ahead.
The AIRHART rollout is expected to take place over several years as Heathrow integrates the platform into existing systems and operational practices.
