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UHF vs VHF radio communication: what’s the difference?

UHF vs VHF radio communication: what’s the difference?

Two-way radios are a hugely important aspect of safe and secure air flight, with pilots and cabin crew using radio communication throughout the course of a flight to communicate with other pilots and air controllers. The two types of radio communication primarily used in aeronautics are UHF and VHF radio.

UHF vs VHF

UHF and VHF stand for ultra-high frequency and very high frequency; as you might now guess, the difference between these two types of radio communication is all about what frequency they transmit a signal at. Neither UHF or VHF is necessarily ‘better’ than the other; both are used today because they provide different advantages.

UHF radios work between 300 MHz and 3 GHz; they have shorter wavelengths that are better able to penetrate through steel and concrete, which makes them well-suited for indoor use. UHF radios are currently used by air traffic control teams and Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs), as well as many other parts of daily life, including satellite communications, Wi-Fi, cordless phones, and television broadcasting.

VHF radios broadcast between 30 MHz and 300 MHz, and are generally speaking more appropriate for outdoor use and areas of open terrain. VHF radio communication has been used in aircraft for over six decades, and while UHF and, more recently, other digital communication technologies are being used more in the field, VHF radio is still an important aspect of air communication particularly in terms of ground-to-air communications.

UHF vs VHF for flight

Both UHF and VHF radios are used in flight communication, for different aspects of flight. VHF radio is still the go-to frequency for many aspects of aircraft, with a group of VHF frequencies set aside as aircraft band frequencies, which means they are solely for use by civil aviation professionals.

UHF is still used in other aspects of flight, for example, UHF is used for instrument landing system (ILS) glide path operations, as well as distance measuring equipment (DME).

It should be clear that neither UHF nor VHF is particularly better than the other; it’s simply the case that both frequencies have different uses and should be used appropriately, both in aviation and other industries, to ensure maximum performance and reliability in different scenarios.

Choosing your aviation radio solutions

When you’re looking for the right radio communication equipment, it’s important to consider the needs of your operation. Are you looking for air-to-ground or ground-to-ground radios, and are you in need of transmitters, receivers, or transceivers? At Bayanat Engineering, we offer a huge range of radio solutions that can be tailored to your business, ensuring that your radio communication system is tailored to your operation’s unique requirements.

Get in touch with us

At Bayanat Engineering, we are experts in all things air technology. For more advice and information about UHF and VHF radio communication solutions, get in touch with us today and we’ll be happy to talk you through our products and services to help you find the perfect radio system for your needs.

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What is wind profiling and what is it used for?

What is wind profiling and what is it used for?

A wind profiler is a piece of equipment that is used to monitor wind speed, direction and conditions. Wind profilers use sound waves (SODAR) or radar waves (RADAR) to detect these conditions at various levels above the ground – from sea level right up to the troposphere (zero to 17 kilometers above sea level).

These wind measurement systems are able to detect vertical and horizontal wind speed, thermal stratification, turbulence and direction, as well as measuring remote temperature profiles within the atmosphere.

What are wind profilers used for?

Wind profilers are commonly used at airports and aircraft control centres to help advise air departments on current weather conditions. Wind profilers are also used to forecast upcoming weather conditions that may affect flight, for example, to alert pilots to areas of turbulence. This information is vital in helping airline planning teams to identify the quickest and/or safest flight route, avoiding areas of potentially bad weather. If a wind profiling system detects upcoming turbulence, airline teams can either act to avoid it completely or can use the information to warn passengers and put minds at ease.

Wind profiling is also used to detect patterns in weather conditions, producing data that can be used to plan aspects of flight operations such as fuel consumption.

What are the different types of wind profiling systems?

There are two main types of wind profilers – the RADAR and the SODAR wind profiler. Both are effective at detecting wind conditions, and both are popular for use in airports.

RADAR

Radar wind profiling involves the use of electromagnetic signals, which can remotely sense and record wind conditions. It works by transmitting an electromagnetic wave along the device’s antenna systems.

The radar system sends out pulses of electromagnetic radiation – some in a vertical direction, and others in a diagonal direction – usually a 75-degree elevation. This creates a vector wind, within which a small portion of energy transmitted in each direction is reflected back to the radar.

Shifts in the frequency of the reflected energy are recorded and then used to determine the speed of the air as it moves away from or towards the radar along each beam.

SODAR

SODAR wind profiling uses sound waves to detect and record wind speed at a range of different elevations. These systems are also effective at measuring the thermodynamic structure of the atmosphere’s lower layer. It measures the scattering of sound waves according to turbulence in the atmosphere and is effective in predicting upcoming weather conditions.

Wind profiling systems are available in various sizes and with a range of capabilities. Although wind profiling systems at airports are typically fairly large devices, advanced technology means that modern systems have very low power consumption, minimal hardware and acute reliability. Modern systems provide a high level of data accuracy, which is increasingly useful for airlines within their complex planning operations. Many are also transportable, meaning that they can be easily manoeuvred around airport grounds as required.

Conclusion

Wind profilers are used in the aviation industry, as well as meteorological and military settings, to measure weather conditions relating to the wind.

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Bayanat Engineering: Specialists in airport lighting, signage projects

Have you ever peered out of your aircraft window and spied multicoloured lights that line the runway as your flight prepares to take off? Their gleam and colour catch the eye, but their purpose is far more important than mere aesthetics. In fact, they constitute specialised lighting for runway and airport and play a crucial role in ensuring the safe passage of planes while on or near the ground.
As for the different colours, they are arranged in precise patterns, that are universally recognised by the different international airports, and represent the various points of the taxiway and runway. This helps orient the pilot and other users of the aeronautical ground when the visibility is low. There are about 9 colour combinations of specialised lighting found in airports.
The different lighting systems of the airport and its proximity
• Taxiways and runways: Taxiway edge lights are blue. They can be both recessed or elevated and are sometimes followed by green in-pavement centreline lights. Their colour is different from that of the runways, which are represented by a white centreline that gradually turns amber towards the approaching of the lift-off.
• Approach and apron lighting: Approaching the runway, a pilot needs to be guided towards its exact whereabouts. There are special series of lightbars and strobe lights lining this passageway, called the approach lighting system (ALS).  At the heart of the airport, aprons, or areas where passengers climb onboard and leave, where aircrafts are parked upon arrival, are marked by apron floodlights. Not only do they help maintain overall security in this zone, but also provide appropriate illumination for the embarkation and debarkation of passengers and cargo.
• Heliport lighting: Outside the usual taxiways and runways, one can find heliports, or areas delimited for the take-off and landing of helicopters. These have a special lighting system as well. You might have noticed in movies that their lights are arranged in a circular or square pattern. Sometimes, the airplane taxiway is in the heliport’s proximity. Therefore, to avoid confusing the two, the latter is lined with yellow lights.
• The significance of signage: Signage is another obligatory means of guiding pilots and vehicles that operate around the taxiways and runways, as it indicates direction and provides information. Two main types can be distinguished: Operational guidance signs and mandatory instruction signs. Marked by special letters, numbers, symbols and, of course, colour, they are just as crucial in ensuring safe passage of planes, although, airports smaller than Hamad International Airport may have little to no such signs.
Together, these luminaries and their ancillaries make up the airfield ground lighting. All the different illumination types could be controlled simultaneously or airfield by airfield via the lighting control and monitoring systems of the airport (ALCMS). The intensity of the lights could also be alternated between high, medium and low for appropriate meteorological conditions. It is important to measure their precise intensity. Photometry and calibration (MALMS) are, hence, used to help with maintenance and measuring of the ground light of the airfield. The measurements of beam intensity and orientation of the Airfield Lighting should be done regularly. Airports also have to submit a report about their installations, which complies with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards and meets the safety regulation requirements for a Preventive Maintenance System for Airfield Lighting.
Outside the airport
Obstruction lights: Specialised lighting is employed outside the aerodromes just as well. On your night flights, it probably occurred to you to find piercing red lights on the rooftops of the Doha skyline, or other towers and tall buildings, as you fly above. It is absolutely necessary to mark elevated structures with these lights to avoid any accidents and indicate their exact position for the passing aircrafts in gloomy or dark conditions. The rules of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) prescribe that the buildings outreaching 200 feet (60 m) above ground be marked by paint or luminaries. As per ICAO, this height is lowered down to about 148 feet (45 m).
These beacon and obstruction lightings vary according to terrain, geographic location, weather conditions of the area, but also types of structures. Interestingly, wind turbines have their own prescribed norms for lighting. So, what are the different types of obstruction lights?  There are the LED elevated aviation red obstruction lights. Their light is omnidirectional and has an Infra-red option. The other two types are Medium-intensity and high-intensity obstruction white lights.
Bayanat Engineering, an expert in the area, has been a provider of high-quality specialised lighting for airfields and heliports, guidance signage, obstruction and beacon lighting, MALMS and ALCMS in various large international airports. In effect, Bayanat Engineering has led specialised lighting and signage projects in Doha’s very own Hamad International Airport.

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تحت شعار «المحيطات مناخ العالم وطقسه» قطر تحتفل باليوم العالمي للأرصاد الجوية

الدوحة  قنا:

شاركت دولة قطر أمس في الاحتفال باليوم العالمي للأرصاد الجوية الذي يصادف الثالث والعشرين من مارس من كل عام، تحت شعار «المحيطات- مناخ العالم وطقسه».

وتولي دولة قطر اهتمامًا كبيرًا بالجوانب المتعلقة بالأرصاد الجوية والتغيرات المناخية، بما يسهم في تحقيق التنمية المستدامة وتعزيز التنمية الخضراء، الأمر الذي يتوافق مع رؤية قطر الوطنية 2030، ويتماشى مع التزامات دولة قطر الدولية وجهودها في إنجاح التعاون الدولي، حيث تلتزم دولة قطر بدور استباقي على المستوى الإقليمي لتقييم أثر تغير المناخ والتخفيف من آثاره السلبية، لا سيما في دول الخليج العربي، ودعم المبادرات الدولية ذات الصلة.

ويؤكد الدستور الدائم لدولة قطر على المحافظة على البيئة وعلى توازنها الطبيعي لتحقيق التنمية الشاملة والمستدامة لكل الأجيال، حيث تعمل قطر مع الأطراف الإقليمية والدولية على معالجة قضايا البيئة وتغير المناخ، كما أن لدولة قطر إسهامًا بارزًا في المبادرات العالمية التي تهدف إلى التخفيف من آثار التغير المناخي.

عبدالله بن ناصر تركي السبيعي

وقال سعادة السيد عبدالله بن ناصر تركي السبيعي، رئيس الهيئة العامة للطيران المدني: نحتفل باليوم العالمي للأرصاد الجوية تحت شعار «المحيطات  مناخ العالم وطقسه»، وفي هذا الصدد اهتمت دولة قطر بخدمات الأرصاد الجوية وحازت على اعتراف منظمة الأرصاد العالمية بتقديم خدمات الطقس من خلال مركز الخليج البحري ليكون المركز الوحيد في المنطقة كمزود للتنبؤات البحرية.

عبدالله محمد المناعي

وبهذه المناسبة أكد السيد عبدالله محمد المناعي، مدير إدارة الأرصاد الجوية بالهيئة العامة للطيران المدني، على أهمية الاحتفال باليوم العالمي للأرصاد الجوية، مبينًا أن المنظمة العالمية للأرصاد الجوية اعتمدت هذا اليوم بعد تأسيسها نظرًا لأهميته، إذ دأبت المنظمة والأعضاء على اختيار شعار لهذا اليوم، يتم استنباطه من القضايا المهمة في مجال الأرصاد الجوية والمناخ، وذلك لتبيان أهمية هذا الجانب وانعكاساته على حياة الناس.

وقال المناعي، إن دولة قطر ممثلة بإدارة الأرصاد الجوية بالهيئة العامة للطيران المدني، تحتفل بهذا اليوم من كل عام، إدراكًا منها بأهمية علوم الأرصاد الجوية والتغيرات المناخية وتأثيرها على حياة الناس، وضرورة أن تكون دولة قطر عنصرًا فاعلًا على الساحة الدولية فيما يتعلق بهذه المجالات.

وحول شعار احتفال هذا العام «المحيطات – مناخ العالم وطقسه»، أوضح مدير إدارة الأرصاد الجوية، أن هناك ارتباطًا وثيقًا بين عناصر الشعار، لافتًا إلى أن اختيار الشعار يأتي من حقيقة أن الرغبة في معرفة المزيد حول الطقس والمناخ والتغيرات المرتبطة بهما تتطلب بذل المزيد من الجهود في سبيل الإلمام بعلوم المحيطات، نظرًا لتأثير التغيرات التي تحدث في المحيطات وانعكاسها على دورة الطقس والمناخ، مؤكدًا أن هذه الجهود سيكون لها مردود إيجابي وستسهم في زيادة المعرفة حول التغيرات المناخية.

وأضاف: إن التغيرات في مياه المحيطات ودراسة تأثيراتها على دورة الطقس والمناخ، ستسهم في الحد من بعض الكوارث الطبيعية وستحد من بعض الخسائر البشرية والمادية.

وحول اهتمام دولة قطر بالأرصاد الجوية والجهود المبذولة في هذا الصدد، أكد المناعي، أن إدارة الأرصاد الجوية بالهيئة العامة للطيران المدني تعمل بشكل مستمر على تطوير منظومتها، مبينًا أن نشاط الإدارة يحظى بتواجد فعال على الساحة المحلية، لافتًا إلى أن الإدارة قامت بالبدء في وقت سابق بتنفيذ بعض المشاريع المهمة التي تم الانتهاء منها مؤخرًا، موضحًا أن الإدارة لا تألو جهدًا في تطوير كل ما من شأنه أن يعزز من مكانة الأرصاد الجوية في دولة قطر، بما يسهم في تقديم خدمات متميزة ومتكاملة.

وأشار إلى أن الأجهزة المستخدمة في إدارة الأرصاد الجوية تتميز بدرجة عالية من التطور والدقة، موضحًا أن تلك الأجهزة التي دخلت حيز التشغيل خلال السنتين الأخيرتين تسهم في تعزيز أداء عمل الإدارة بكفاءة، وتساعد الموظفين على أداء عملهم على أكمل وجه. كما أنها تنتج تحليلات وتنبؤات عالية الدقة.

وقال المناعي إن قسم الرصد بالإدارة يمتلك 13 محطة أرصاد أوتوماتيكية، حيث إن العمل جارٍ على تركيبها في المواقع التي تم تحديدها بناءً على دراسات دقيقة، مبينًا أن بعض تلك المحطات سيتم تركيبها في مواقع تخدم بطولة كأس العالم 2022.

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Air Traffic Management (ATM) Automation Systems

 

Air Traffic Management (ATM) Automation Systems

What are Air Traffic Management(ATM) Automation Systems?

 

Air traffic management is a vital part of the everyday running of an airport, making sure planes can land safely in the right place and at the right time. There are several set routes that aircraft can follow and air traffic controllers ensure aircraft remain safe distances from each other during every stage of the process. Air Traffic Management (ATM) Automation Systems have been developed to speed up and automate several processes which are essential to air traffic management. Because of the complex nature of handling air traffic, and the massive amounts of information that is necessary, the introduction of automatic systems has revolutionised the aviation industry.

 

How can automation improve air traffic management

 

Air traffic management automation systems can be used to increase efficiency, exchange information and increase safety. ATM systems can handle routine tasks like the collection of flight plan data which was the first use of automated ATM systems that started in the 1950s. Automation increases efficiency in a number of areas, such as optimising the amount of airspace that can be used at one time.

 

Because of the huge amount of data that affects air travel, systems which can collect this automatically are a huge advantage. Automated Weather Observing Systems fetch accurate meteorological data to enable air traffic controllers to make the best decisions possible. Conflict identification is another major benefit to automation in air traffic control systems. They can also be used to collect and distribute aeronautical data and integrate the data into situational displays. By providing this information in real-time, these systems can improve efficiency and decision-making. Automatic systems can also be a cost-effective solution for airports, allowing them to reduce personnel costs and cut down workload.

 

Safer skies with automation

 

One of the main ways that air traffic management automation systems has changed the aviation industry is by dramatically increasing safety in every facet of airport management. Monitoring tools can detect any possible issues such as setting a wrong SSR code or detecting a deviation from the clearance. Automatic systems reduce the risk of human error, which can be a major factor in complex systems like an airport. Automatic warnings, alarms and error messages are another way that these systems can increase safety and mitigate any risks. They can be used to look for any inconsistencies and alert air traffic controllers to adverse situations that may affect visibility. Automatic Dependent Surveillance Technologies also enable airports to become safer, detecting any risks like drones which may affect air travel. Verification tools add an extra layer of safety to airport proceedings too.

 

Bayanat Engineering Qatar ATM systems

 

Bayanat Engineering Qatar offers a range of air traffic management automation systems, and they have a wealth of experience providing cutting edge systems to airports. Airline capacity is on the rise, and automatic systems will be one of the major drivers in allowing more people to fly, in a safer way. As airports seek to expand and evolve it will be essential to utilise the latest air traffic management automation systems. Bayanat Engineering Qatar helps its clients find new ways to innovate and improve airport services, whilst maintaining the highest aviation standards.

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Bayanat Engineering Qatar: Leader in meteorology systems

 

Meteorology is a part of everyday life. The aviation, marine, oil and gas, and military sectors use meteorological tools in different ways. Bayanat Engineering Qatar is the leader in the market.
Aviation: The aviation industry employs the use of runway visual range (RVR) systems to ensure a clear and safe landing strip for the pilot to land their aircraft. The RVR is calculated using transmissometers, a piece of equipment installed along runways to determine the visual range left until the aircraft’s landing point.
Oil and gas: The oil and gas procurement industry is unpredictable. Working anywhere from the middle of the ocean to deep under the ground, sudden changes in weather conditions can impact the harvesting of oil and gas and endanger workers. This is where meteorology comes in. Using equipment such as Automated Weather Observing Systems (AWOS) and Weather Decision Support Systems (WDSS), oil and gas firms can constantly monitor the weather and change their working strategies accordingly.
Military: Meteorology is used there too. Navy and Marine, as well as the Military Aviation depend on the meteorology aspects.
AWOS: One of the oldest types of automated weather monitoring units, AWOS units report the latest weather updates in 20-minute intervals. This is ideal for airports that need regular and reliable weather reports to ensure optimal flying conditions for every flight. AWOS systems are fully configurable to specific needs and can include any number of the following measurements — Barometric pressure, Wind speed, gust, and direction; Visibility, Identification of precipitation (e.g drizzle, snow, rain), and Sky condition, including cloud ceiling height.
Meteorological sensors: These are typically deployed on buoys, though they are also set up on towers and across runways. Like AWOS, these sensors accurately measure a variety of weather conditions and other aviation affecting factors. At Bayanat, we install meteorological sensors that measure  Wind, Barometric pressure, Temperature, Humidity, Cloud ceiling height, Precipitation, and Solar radiation.
Runway Visual Range: Another piece of crucial airport equipment that Bayanat offers installation of, is transmissometers. They are installed at the side of the runway to allow for the measurement of the RVR. Transmissometers are a modern method of RVR calculation. Transmissometers  allow for more precise and reliable measurements not dependent on the eyesight quality of a worker. This guarantees a safer and more guided landing for pilots.
MET Forecasting/Visualization Systems: MET forecasting is another essential cog that keeps airport business moving smoothly. By forecasting the weather through visualization systems such as the ones offered by Bayanat, airports can ensure that they can anticipate any weather issues with maximum efficiency and warning time. These are the same MET forecasting systems used by weather reporters.
Weather Radars: Also known as a Doppler weather radar or weather surveillance radar (WSR), weather radars are used specifically to track precipitation, including its type (snow, rain, etc), motion, and intensity. Modern weather radars are incredibly useful as they not only measure current rain but can also award experts foresight, giving the ability to preempt intense and potentially disruptive precipitation.
LiDAR (Wind shear/Wake Vortex Measurement): Standing for Light Detection and Ranging, LiDAR allows for the measurement of distances across the earth, most specifically its surface characteristics including wind shear. Wind shear can significantly affect the flight quality and path of aircraft, so trusting Bayanat to install LiDAR monitoring equipment could be invaluable.
Lightning detection systems: Bayanat’s lightning detection systems are one of the most advanced and reliable units in the market. Measuring down to the exact discharge location and the polarity, strength, and lightning parameters, airports will receive highly detailed and precise data during every storm.
Radiometers: Used for the thermodynamic profiling of energy, radiometers are devices that measure and monitor the flux of electromagnetic radiation. Radiometers quantify invisible types of light, including infrared and UV, helping to widen the range of data on the light spectrum.
Radiosonde: Usually carried into the atmosphere via weather balloon, radiosondes are remote weather telemetry systems that measure a range of weather parameters and transmit the data to a control base back on earth. This is ideal for airports as they can glean an accurate report of the environment up in the air, including checking for ideal flight conditions and preempting any problematic conditions.
Weather Decision Support Systems: For holistic weather decision support, any airport should invest in WDSS offered by Bayanat. WDSSs take all data attained by the above equipment and utilise it to predict and detect any change in the weather, including rare phenomena.
If you do want to learn more – you can contact Bayanat Engineering Qatar and check their website for the past projects and information.

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Bayanat Engineering: The ICT solutions provider for HIA

The rapid development of Information Communication technology (ICT) over the last 50 years marked the rise of the Digital Age. The aviation sector, at its core a manifestation of technological advancement, relies heavily on ICT.  

Why use ICT in aviation?

ICT involves devices (phones, computers, etc.), applications, Internet and wireless networks, telecommunications and software that placed together in a system, ensure transmission and storage of information in the digital space.  It is, therefore, crucial that good communication is established not only among the staff but also between the technical structures involved, for the proper functioning of the airport system. Moreover, the information should be safely stored and transmitted.

This is where the ICT comes into play and contribute to various fields of communications in the airport.

Cabling systems

The structured cabling systems (SCN) are an essential part of the airport’s telecommunications infrastructure (transmission of signals via wires, broadcasting, telephone, telegraph, etc.) that involves not only cables, but various other types of hardware. Apart from providing efficient telephone services, it also allows data to be quickly and safely transferred between the computer networks within the airport, as well as to its outside receptors. It is a design and installation of the cables that starts at a point called the network interface device (the endpoint of the service provider) and props up the various hardware involved in the airport infrastructure, maintaining connections in the entirety of the airport systems.  Cables have to be installed according to standards. Cabling has various so-called subsystems, the established connection points: Entrance facilities, equipment rooms, backbone cabling, horizontal cabling, telecom rooms and work-area components.

Data Communication Hardware and Computer Network Equipment 

To be able to efficiently pass on data between the different parts of the aerodrome, such as its terminals, or even its many computers, data communication hardware and computer network equipment are used. Storage and servers are also an essential part of data hardware, as they constitute the data center equipment. A file server stores information on one networked computer, while interlinking the network’s users and allowing them to access this data through their connected devices. Data communication hardware also includes storage for the tons of data that are being processed at the airports every year.

The computer network equipment of an airport serves as a link between various devices, splitting, switching, sending and boosting information signals around the network. There are also certain protocols that prescribe the way data should be handled by these devices. Some types include the host computer, hubs, Network interface cards, routers, gateways, firewalls and modems.

Distributed antennas (DAS)

These are the antennas connected to a single point and distributed around an area. The structure allows for better network performance, with one antenna wholly covering its assigned zone, without disturbing the coverage provided by others of its kind. At airports, the DAS could be used to distribute wireless service coverage. This includes cellular and Wi-Fi connections, PCS and even public safety services.

Security, cloud computing and IoT

With the amount of data stored at the airports, there is need for security. If this confidential information is hacked into, the consequences may be detrimental to the airport. Various cybersecurity and information security systems are installed to prevent unauthorized access to data, its inappropriate modification or deletion.

The Internet of Things (IoT) or the devices that are interconnected via Internet, relies heavily on cloud computing, which is the provision of services or solutions, such as software, databases, analytics, storage, servers, etc. This allows for flexibility of resources, lowering of operating costs and more efficient performance of the system, as the services are specifically tailored to the airport’s needs.

IP telephony and IP television

The basis of the modern-day airport ICT is interconnection, facilitation of information transmission and flexibility of service. Internet Protocol telephony is no different. IP telephony is a phone system reliant on the Internet Protocol’s packet switch connections for voice data transmission. The Internet aspect allows for better sound quality and lower charges. Implementing these into the many systems of the airport could help attract more customers and provide voice services for airlines.  Airports seek to provide good customer experience to all visitors, so Internet Protocol television (IPTV) is installed in large international flight hubs. The IP television could be connected to a local area network or a wide area network. As a user of IPTV, you are able to stream programs and series on demand.

Bayanat Engineering specializes in these and other ICT solutions for airports around the world. An important figure in the Middle Eastern aviation sector, Bayanat Engineering is notably behind the installation of the information communication technologies in Hamad International Airport.

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Bayanat Engineering Qatar: Providing HIA with hi-tech solutions to combat virus

COVID-19 prevention and solutions at Hamad International Airport

With the unexpected arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic, countries and their industries all around the planet had been constrained to adapt new sanitary measures, in order to reduce contamination by the quasi-omnipresent virus.  Airports, the tourist hubs of the world that welcome millions of visitors every year, have seen the risk of becoming the primary spreading spots for the novel coronavirus, as the number of infections continued growing globally.

This is why, it has been an essential task for engineers to make sure that these places of potential first contact with the disease, are well-disinfected and secured. Hamad International Airport, elected as one of the top-three airports in the world in 2020, has seen its own load of sanitary measures implemented. The focus has been put on the diminution of the potential transmissions of COVID-19, as well as on prevention, needed to reduce any possibility of the virus’ “setting foot” on the Qatari soil.

Apart from the now-essential masks and gloves distributed to all staff members, the encouraged cashless card payment, the hand sanitisers available at every corner and the disinfection of the high-contact areas every 10 to 15 minutes, HIA now boasts an array of technological solutions — its ammunition against the vicious virus. In fact, Hamad International Airport has been espousing technological advancement from its very conception; the same spirit of innovation dominates its strategy against the pandemic.

 

Technological solutions at HIA

One may believe themselves in a Star Wars theme park upon entering the airport. What are all of those intergalactic-looking helmets and robots circling everywhere?  The robots that have been put in place all around the facility, especially in the zones of higher visitor concentrations. These autonomous devices kill the majority of noxious micro-organisms in the air, by emitting concentrated UV-C light, hence reducing the risk of contamination by the virus. The ultraviolet solutions have also been employed in the disinfection tunnels for the passing luggage.

As for the sci-fi helmets that are worn by the staff, these are, in fact, intelligent infra-red face masks that measure the temperature of the passers-by. Its functioning based on IR thermal imaging, AI and augmented reality display, the contactless head appliance is an exemplar of HIA’s innovation-based approach to combatting the COVID-19 crisis.

But the real stars of this futuristic aerodrome are the M3000N Dual Vision Network Thermal Imaging Cameras, an extra-precise arsenal deployed to screen the temperature of the crowds. How does this system work?

With its coverage of hundreds of people per minute, it achieves an impressive 99.5% accuracy in measuring the temperature of individuals. It is critical to determine the first fever symptoms, raised body temperature’s being one of the giveaway signs of the novel coronavirus infection. Time and resource-efficient, the scanner cameras present themselves as optimal solutions in the scenario. Installed by Bayanat Engineering in only 2 months, the camera system uses Cantronics technology, which facilitates mass scanning. Furthermore, the footage of the cameras could be stored for a period of 60 days, enough to find potential signs of the infected individuals and help trace back the amplitude and spread of contaminations. It also utilises uninterruptible power supply (UPS), which allows the system to function and perform continuously, without interruption. It is also very easy to sync with the third-party software, such as Qatar’s Ehteraz application, since transparency and good communication are essential in preventing the spread of the virus.

Hasan Ezzeddine, General Manager at Bayanat Engineering, prides himself in the technology, and said: “I believe it is a great and essential solution in the current state of affairs and will be a necessity due to high accuracy.”

Indeed, Bayanat Engineering, throughout the years, has been a loyal partner and provider to the Hamad International Airport both in terms of technological and sanitary solutions.

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How technology is helping airports communicate with customers

 

How technology is helping airports communicate with customers

Communication is key at the airport, but it can also present a challenge. Airports vary in size but many are vast environments with multiple terminal buildings, such as Beijing Daxing International Airport, which spans more than 18 square miles in total. Added to that, most airports are busy sites with customers speaking a huge range of languages.

 

Effective communication is essential at the airport to get every passenger to their flight on time. As airports become increasingly modernised, innovative technology is playing a pivotal role in improving communication and the passenger’s experience.

 

Public Address & Voice Alarm Systems

 

Public Address & Voice Alarm Systems (PA/VA) are a fundamental element of communication within an airport; perhaps the most obvious example. PA/VA systems help passengers to find out gate numbers and reach their flights on time, including individual passengers who are delayed. PA/VA systems can be as simple as a microphone and speaker set up for use in a confined area such as the departure gate, or can be more sophisticated arrangements to make announcements throughout the departure lounge or the entire terminal building.

 

Innovative low current PA/VA systems are growing in popularity at airports because they do not interfere with the electrical operations of the airport, despite being in continual use. This rise in low current systems means that it’s possible for airports to deploy more sophisticated PA/VA systems without affecting operations.

 

Effective signage and information

 

Signage and information are essential at the airport and have a huge impact on the customer’s experience. At large international airports with multiple gates and flights departing, easing the passenger’s navigation around the site is a necessity. Many major airports now boast a large amount of digital signage, which is growing in popularity as an eco-friendly and fully customisable solution. Digital signage and video walls can easily be programmed to display any message or information, including emergency announcements. Videos and visuals displayed through digital signage can also help to overcome language barriers when communicating with passengers.

 

Information display systems such as Flight Information Display Systems (FIDS) are vital for helping customers get around the airport. These systems need to work effectively so that passengers can locate the correct check-in desks and gate for their flight. Modern FIDS software allows information to be shared in real-time across all display screens in the network, leading to ever-increasing accuracy and timeliness – two attributes that are essential where airport communication is concerned.

 

As well as FIDS, airport information systems can also be used to display information that gives customers a more enjoyable experience. This could include directions to amenities such as toilets, lounges, or currency exchange counters, or advertisements for stores, eateries, and products sold on-site.

 

An improved customer experience

 

Innovative technology can be used in multiple ways at the airport to communicate with passengers, thereby enhancing their experience. By enabling information to be clearly communicated, technology is key to modernising airports and both aiding and improving the experience for passengers. As these technologies develop, particularly where information systems are concerned, airports will be able to offer greater numbers of passengers a more and more streamlined and enjoyable travel experience.

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Airport Design

How do airports use design to help passengers?

Modern airports often showcase some of the most cutting edge and innovative architecture out there, but the principles of great airport design don’t stop at the exterior. Airports around the world are turning to design experts to find solutions to common problems that travellers fear like getting lost and making sure you are on time.

 

Using design to encourage wayfinding

 

One of the most important things in airport design is the way in which passengers move around the airport and get to their gates with enough time. This is known as wayfinding and it is one of the most important design principles used in airports. At Bayanat Engineering Qatar we offer a variety of wayfinding systems which utilise both technology and design to ensure passengers can move quickly and efficiently through the airport.

 

Practical ways to encourage wayfinding

 

There are a number of ways designers use wayfinding clues to subtly help passengers navigate the airport. Designers often utilise the large open spaces in airports to allow passengers to have clear sightlines to the next place they need to go so they can plan ahead. You may have seen large art pieces and installations in airports, which provide a reference point to allow passengers to orientate themselves and create a mental map of the area. Designers also use subtle differences between terminals or areas to let passengers know they are somewhere else. These include different shaped signs, changes in the carpet pattern or they could be practical boundaries in place to control passenger’s routes like a row of seats.

 

Clear communication

 

Clear, well-designed signage is incredibly important in airports throughout the passenger’s journey and designers have several tools to encourage communication. Bold colours like yellow and black can be used to warn passengers, and symbols will be used often as many travellers will speak different languages. Before security, there should be several large and easy to read signs so passengers know what to expect and how to prepare, as well as well-placed bins to allow easy disposal of banned items. Digital flight information directories in obvious places allow passengers to feel in control and manage their time effectively. As technology has evolved, new digital solutions have been introduced in airports such as airport apps and geolocating software to inform passengers in realtime.

 

Making customers feel safe

 

Travelling can be an anxious experience for many, especially with new security measures, like human body temperature scanners, metal detectors and detailed questionnaires. In fact, many airport designers think that these obvious, large-scale security measures can ease traveller’s worries about potential terror attacks, by showing just how seriously it is taken. Another way airport designers can remedy this is through introducing ‘recomposure zones’ which allow you to take some time and relax after the stressful security checks or the wait for baggage handling. These will have benches and perhaps somewhere to get a coffee. Designers will also use natural light as much as possible, with landscaping elements and art also helping to create a soothing and calm atmosphere for travellers.

 

Airport design experts

 

At Bayanat Engineering Qatar, we offer comprehensive airport design and consultancy services. We know just how important great design is in airports and we can help you implement wayfinding systems to improve passenger flow and customer experience. Our decades of experience in the Aeronautics and Aerospace industry mean we can offer practical advice and real-world solutions.