How the Internet of Things benefits airports

How the Internet of Things benefits airports

The Internet of Things (IoT) has gained significant attention from tech experts around the world in recent years thanks to its capacity for complex interconnectivity. One setting in which such interconnectivity is proving to be a huge asset is, perhaps unsurprisingly, the modern airport. From improved customer service experiences to more efficient bag sorting systems, IoT connectivity has quickly become invaluable for airlines across the world.

 

Here are just a few of the ways in which IoT technology will revolutionize aviation in the next few years:

 

  1. Online check-in systems

 

Online check-in systems have been around for a while, eliminating the need for passengers to wait in tiresome queues for hours on end. What many people do not realize is that they rely on complex IoT technology, hooking up with security systems and other information-gathering devices to ensure that the customer journey is as smooth and painless as possible.

 

  1. Better baggage handling

 

As anyone who has ever traveled via airplane will know, baggage handling systems are notoriously inefficient. We all know someone whose bag has been misplaced or lost while on holiday, possibly causing a significant amount of stress and inconvenience.

 

Fortunately, airport managers are now free to harness the powers of IoT to lessen the risk of bag loss. By carefully placing special sensors around busy parts of the airport, it is possible to keep track of luggage locations and footfall levels in selected areas. This means that baggage handlers will be alerted to misplaced luggage very early on in the journey, thereby lowering the risk of unhappy customers.

 

  1. Improved security

 

Airport security systems could be tightened and made more efficient thanks to wearables and biometric tokens. When hooked up to IoT, such equipment could improve access technologies and ensure that airport staff are able to conduct necessary tasks at all times.

 

  1. Special guides for passengers

 

Thanks to their size and scale, airports can be tricky places to navigate. Thanks to smartphone technologies and the development of location-based applications, however, this is all set to change. Up to 71% of airports are looking to launch helpful navigation applications to ensure passengers do not miss their flights and to reduce the number of delays. Artificial intelligence is also set to play a role in delivering accurate real-time data to passengers regarding departure and arrival times.

 

  1. Superior repairs and maintenance systems

 

IoT now allows airport managers to keep track of necessary repair issues on a real-time basis, something which could prove very useful for large airports.

 

  1. A better airport experience for customers

 

Thanks to the power of Bluetooth geolocation technology, airline customers can benefit from real-time information about the availability of parking spaces, airport shuttle availability and schedules, and up-to-date information about which shops are open in the area. Passengers could even book their own restaurant tables remotely if desired.

 

A more welcoming airport environment

 

As you can see, the potential for IoT to improve the airline industry is immense. As well as improving efficiency, we will soon see the roll-out of applications and devices designed to enhance customer service experiences in airports around the world.

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