Siemens Postal, Parcel & Airport Logistics (SPPAL) has signed a memorandum of understanding with Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (BLR Airport) operator Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL) to collaborate on the digital transformation of the airport.
The declaration of intent envisages cooperation in a number of areas, including the digitalisation of existing infrastructure through the use of Internet of Things (IoT) applications. The solutions rest on MindSphere, the open Cloud-based IoT operating system from Siemens, which will work with BIAL in the simplification of its processes, increase efficiency and continue to improve the customer experience. BLR Airport is the third busiest airport in India, having handled over 25 million passengers in 2017.
“In developing digital solutions, Siemens increasingly relies on agile, collaborative working relationships with customers and partners,” said Michael Reichle, CEO of Siemens Postal, Parcel & Airport Logistics. “We’ve been cooperating closely with BIAL for several years. I’m looking forward to partnering to further develop digital services.”
“The BLR Airport is a pioneer and leader of change in the Indian aviation industry. Our aim is to introduce more digitally advanced, innovative services and products at the BLR Airport to ensure that passengers and partners have the advantage of future forward technologies, in a seamless operating environment. Siemens has always worked closely with BIAL as both investor and technology partner. With the signing of the MoU for digitalisation, we are once again gearing up for a leading position in India together with SPPAL,” said Mr Hari Marar, managing director and CEO of BIAL.
One of the aims of the collaboration between Siemens and BIAL is the standardised, secure real-time exchange of quality-assured data. The measure is designed to increase transparency and thus improve processes between the various stakeholders at the airport.
A further aspect involves the implementation of innovative service methods for the baggage handling system installed by Siemens in Bengaluru. Predictive maintenance, for instance, will allow system availability to be increased and spare parts management to be optimised. State-of-the-art data analysis and artificial intelligence are just some of the technologies being considered to this end.
To further expand its digital portfolio, SPPAL has recently opened a new MindSphere Application Center (MAC) in Dubai, which will be used to develop future-oriented analytics and IoT solutions for airports, airlines, freight service providers and ground handling services. The MAC in Dubai is part of the global network of a total of 20 centers for digital customer applications from the Siemens Group.
Together with customers, around 900 software developers, data specialists and engineers are developing digital solutions in these MACs. BLR Airport opened for operations in 2008. Within the scope of the public-private partnership, Siemens provided partial financing as well as erecting the entire terminal on a turnkey basis in its role as the general contractor.