Control rooms have historically been located near the operations that they monitor. While this approach had advantages – such as visual access and direct interaction with personnel – it can hinder collaboration between departments. This creates headaches for operators and potentially makes it more difficult to effectively monitor operations.

We have seen, though, that airports are undergoing a significant digital transformation, which opens opportunities for seamless data distribution.

Centralising operators in one room enables them to easily share information using tools like a large video wall. This significantly accelerates issue resolution. 

Amidst this digital transformation, several major trends have come to light: the increase in monitoring needs of Airport Operations Centres (APOCs), consolidation of control rooms for better collaboration, changing preparation considerations for control rooms, and more that I will discuss in more depth in this article. 

Large cities on a condensed surface 

APOCs manage and monitor a wide array of functions. These include not only core airport activities such as aircraft ground movement, luggage handling, and passenger security; but also traffic control, electricity distribution, and emergency services. In many ways, an airport functions like a large city concentrated within a small area. 

One major challenge for operators is that some data sources are located on networks that must remain strictly separated for security reasons – examples include emergency services, public safety, and customs.

This separation of networks is a significant challenge, often forcing operators to switch desks just to access specific information. It’s not uncommon for an operator’s workstation to have three separate computers, each with its own monitor, mouse, and keyboard.

Fortunately, modern software platforms can now integrate all these sources into a single working environment. Although the networks remain separate, the information is unified at the visualisation layer, or ‘integration at the glass.’ This enhances both operator efficiency and well-being.

In an industry where employee retention is a key challenge, creating the most comfortable working environment possible is a top priority. 

Prepare for the worst, but aim for growth 

The ability to distribute data seamlessly across the entire site offers additional benefits. A large airport I worked with, for example, required a Disaster Recovery Center – a fully equipped secondary control room in a separate building that operators can use if the main APOC becomes inaccessible due to a fire, power outage, or other catastrophic event.

To make this possible, operators need access to all critical sources from alternative locations, which calls for a state-of-the-art content distribution platform. 

Passenger and cargo numbers have shown a steady increase over the years, with no signs of slowing down. To maximise return on investment, airports must consider this growth in their planning.

Systems must be designed to grow easily, both in size and functionality. I strongly advise decision-makers to prioritise this. While any system can theoretically be expanded, the process should be simple, seamless, and, ideally, require no downtime. 

Containing the crisis 

One downside of integration is the potential for crises in one department to affect the entire APOC. For instance, while a security breach may not directly concern the luggage handling department, the overall tension in the room can impact operations. Having a separate crisis room is therefore often a high priority for airports.

Especially in large APOCs, minimising tension is essential. These crisis rooms are typically standard meeting rooms equipped with flexible tools to access all sources from any location. This ensures teams can convene and act swiftly without disrupting the main control room. 

Providing passengers with the best possible travel experience requires operational excellence in the APOC. The trend toward centralising all divisions in one location is the most effective way to foster collaboration and maintain focus.

This approach relies on having the right vision, workflows, and tools to empower operators and prevent potential issues.