How Advanced FIDS Technology is Transforming Passenger Experience in Indian Airports

As the aviation industry expands with the increase of travellers, FIDS technology in India continues to play an important role to ensure smooth airport operations and maintain an enjoyable experience for all passengers.

This blog will elaborate on how advanced FIDS solutions is transforming airports in India by improving airport efficiency and passenger satisfaction. Aside from this, the blog will share about the current state of FIDS technology in India, future trends, and the importance of FIDS for regional airports in India.

What is FIDS and Why Is It Important?

A Flight Information Display System (FIDS) is used in airports to help inform passengers of real-time flight updates, gate information, delays or cancellations, and more. These are displayed on airport digital signages and placed strategically in various locations like check-in areas, boarding gates, terminals – to ensure that travellers have easy access to critical flight information.

FIDS plays a crucial role in ensuring airport operational efficiency, because it helps manage the passenger flow to reduce congestion, and aids airport staff in staying updated with the flight status and logistic information. For the passengers, getting real-time flight updates is essential to ensure that they make it on time to their flights without the added stress of wrong gates to ultimately enhance their travel experience.

For an organised and efficient airport experience, FIDS technology is the vital tool to streamline communication between passengers, airlines, and airport staff.

The Current State of FIDS in Indian Airports

India is considered one of the busiest airports in the world, this includes Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai, and Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore. These big airports have already optimised the use of advanced FIDS technology to ensure they meet the growing and evolving needs of millions of passengers annually.

FIDS systems have adapted multilingual capabilities to cater to India’s diverse population such as speakers of Hindi, English, and other several regional languages. This capability ensures that passengers from different regions can still access real-time flight information with their preferred language, making the travel experience inclusive and accessible for all.

Improving Passenger Experience with Advanced FIDS Solutions

The implementation of advanced FIDS solutions in Indian airports is transforming how travellers experience air travel.

Here’s how the FIDS systems is making a significant difference:

a. Real-Time Flight Updates

One of the top benefits of FIDS technology is being able to provide real-time flight updates, to keep passengers updated about their flight status wherever they may be in the airport. Whether it’s in the check-in counter, security clearance, boarding, or even baggage claim, passengers can rely on the real-time updates of FIDS systems to plan their journey successfully.

b. Multilingual Support

Major airports in India have recognized the need for the FIDS systems to offer multilingual support. Passengers can access real-time flight updates in Hindi, English, and other regional languages to ensure clear communication. This also helps reduce the likelihood of confusion and stress to first-time travellers.

c. Seamless Navigation

Airport digital signages that are integrated into FIDS systems play an important role in helping passengers navigate a large airport. Being able to offer easy-to-read and clear screens which show gate information, baggage claim locations, and directions to lounges and restaurants help reduce stress and make the airport experience more intuitive.

d. Personalisation

With everyone owning a mobile phone nowadays, it is crucial to offer mobile integration. An advanced FIDS solutions can offer personalised notifications and updates directly into the passengers’ smartphones. This is a very useful tool for frequent flyers and those who want to stay informed via a notification about their flight schedules without having to constantly check airport digital signages.

e. Display Free text information

Beyond standard flight data, many FIDS offer the capability to display free text information. This feature allows airport operators to input and broadcast custom messages, such as emergency alerts, security updates, promotional content, or other pertinent information, directly to passengers. Enabling the dissemination of tailored messages as needed.

f. Display Baggage belt flight

A Flight Information Display System (FIDS) can include baggage information to assist passengers with their luggage-related needs. This type of FIDS is typically referred to as a Baggage Information Display System (BIDS) and shows real-time updates about baggage claim information, including:

• Baggage Claim Carousel Number: Displays the designated carousel or belt where arriving passengers can collect their checked luggage.
• Flight Numbers: Lists flight numbers alongside carousel assignments for easy identification.
• Status Updates: Shows updates such as “Bags Arriving,” “In Progress,” or “Completed” to help passengers know the status of baggage handling for their flight.
• Custom Messages: Allows free-text messages to inform passengers of delays, carousel changes, or other critical information about baggage.

BIDS is often part of a comprehensive FIDS, giving passengers a seamless, integrated experience with all the information they need upon arrival.

Technological Advancements in FIDS

Driven by technological innovations, the FIDS technology in India continues to evolve significantly. Here are several key advancements that transformed FIDS systems into smarter, more efficient tools:

a. AI and Machine Learning

The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning in today’s technological space has enabled predictive analytics, into FIDS technology which helps anticipate potential disruptions in flights. With the analysis of historical data and real-time conditions such as weather patterns, the AI-powered FIDS systems can display early warnings of cancellations or delays which gives passengers and airport staff proper time to adjust and prepare.

b. Cloud-Based Solutions

Cloud-based FIDS systems offer increased scalability which is why most Indian airports are already making the transition from their current FIDS systems. Another advantage of a cloud-based FIDS systems such as Scala’s is that it can be updated remotely which allows real-time updates and minimizes the risk of technical glitches or outdated information being displayed to passengers.

c. Integration with Airport Digital Signage

To make the display of flight information more visually engaging and dynamic, it is suggested to incorporate airport digital signage to Scala’s FIDS technology. Airport digital signage can also be customized for different locations such as boarding gates, waiting lounges, or security checkpoints to ensure relevant information is displayed based on the passenger’s location.

d. AODB integration

Integrating a Flight Information Display System (FIDS) with an Airport Operational Database (AODB) is essential for delivering accurate, real-time flight information to passengers and airport staff. The AODB serves as the central repository for all airport operations data, including flight schedules, resource allocations, and real-time updates. By connecting FIDS to the AODB, airports ensure that display screens throughout the terminal present the most current and precise information.

Enhancing Airport Operational Efficiency

Aside from FIDS technology being used to improve the passenger experience, it also improves the optimisation of airport operations. FIDS systems help airports operate efficiently in several ways such as:

a. Reducing Congestion

Airports are always busy and crowded with congested gates, security check points, and boarding areas which leads to passenger frustration, stress and delays. A solution to this challenge is having an Advanced FIDS solution to help streamline the flow of people by guiding passengers to the correct areas at the right time, which will avoid bottlenecks.

b. Improving Decision-Making

For airport employees, the ability to access real-time flight information is crucial in making informed and quick decisions. Whether it’s adjusting schedules, reallocating resources, or managing unexpected delays, FIDS technology guarantees that airport employees have the correct data they need to for quick and effective decision making.

c. Enhancing Safety and Security

FIDS systems also contribute to airport security by reducing confusion and helping passengers understand and follow instructions based on real-time information on flight schedules, changes in gates and other critical updates.

d. CUTE Integration

Integrating Flight Information Display Systems (FIDS) with Common Use Terminal Equipment (CUTE) consoles at check-in counters and boarding gates enhances airport operations by providing real-time, accurate information to both passengers and staff. This integration offers several key benefits:

• Real-Time Flight Information: CUTE consoles can present up-to-date flight details, gate assignments, and passenger information, enabling check-in agents to assist travellers efficiently.
• Check-in Counter Allocation: The system dynamically assigns and displays check-in counters for specific flights, optimising resource utilisation and reducing passenger wait times.
• Logo and Services Management: Airlines can customise displays with their branding and service information, ensuring a consistent and professional appearance across all check-in counters.

By integrating FIDS with CUTE consoles, airports can streamline check-in processes, improve communication, and enhance the overall passenger experience.

Future Trends in FIDS for Indian Airports

The future of FIDS technology looks promising as it continues to grow with India’s aviation industry. Here are several trends that are likely so shape the future of FIDS systems in India:

a. Personalisation and Mobile Integration

As mobile apps are essential for all passengers, the integration of PIDS systems with mobile apps will become prevalent. This will allow passengers to receive real-time flight updates directly on their smartphones. It will make the travel experience more personalised, and passengers can have the control to customise notifications based on their liking.

b. Smart Airport Solutions

The capabilities of FIDS systems will further improve alongside the rise of smart airports that offer various integrated technologies such as AI, biometrics, and the Internet of Things (IoT). These smart airport solutions will not only enhance FIDS operational efficiency, but it will also offer tailored services for passengers.

c. Sustainability

As passengers become conscious on environmental practices and sustainability, FIDS systems also play a role in this with the reduction of energy consumption. Cloud-based solutions will offer energy-efficient airport digital signage which will be part of the shift to sustainable airport operations.

Why FIDS is Critical for Emerging Regional Airports in India

Smaller regional airports are now noticing the benefits of advanced FIDS solutions as most major airports in cities like Delhi and Mumbai have already embraced this technology.

The rapid growth of India’s domestic air travel market is pushing the demand for better infrastructure at regional airports, and advanced FIDS technology is a key component in meeting these requirements.

FIDS technology offers several advantages for regional airports such as:

• Real-time flight updates to reduce passenger confusion and improve communications.
• Operational efficiency will be enhanced by allowing airports to manage flights effectively even with limited staff.
• Multilingual support will ensure that passengers from different regions of India can understand important flight information in their preferred language.

With the continuous expansion of India’s regional airports, it is crucial to adopt FIDS technology to provide a seamless and efficient travel experience for all passengers.

The adoption of FIDS technology in India is transforming the passengers experience in airports and how the airports are managing their operations. The integration of cutting-edge technologies such as AI and cloud-based solutions can drive efficiency in improving the overall travel experience.

As the aviation industry will continue to grow, both major and regional airports can benefit from embracing advanced FIDS solutions by Scala, ensuring that India is at the forefront of global airport innovation. To learn more, visit scala.com/in

About the Author:

Tahir Imran is Assistant Vice President, Research and Development, responsible for leading and managing the research and development efforts of STRATACACHE/ Scala in Asia-Pacific. With a background in science and engineering, he has extensive experience in research, product development, and project management. He works closely with teams across the organisation from marketing to operations and sales, to develop and implement strategies for new product development, as well as improve existing products. He stays up-to-date on industry trends and emerging technologies, leveraging this knowledge to drive innovation and maintain a competitive edge in the marketplace.

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