What Is a Flight Information Display System (FIDS) and Why Do Airports Depend on It?
by Tahir Imran
What Is a Flight Information Display System (FIDS) and Why Do Airports Depend on It?
by Tahir Imran
For airports to improve the overall passenger experience and airport operations, an essential tool is the Flight Information Display System (FIDS). Scala’s FIDS is a digital solution that provides real-time flight updates and can be integrated with existing airport systems to keep passengers informed.
In this blog, let’s explore FIDS, its functionalities at each touch point, and why modern airports in India depend on it for enhanced customer experiences and operational efficiency.
Understanding the Flight Information Display System (FIDS)
A Flight Information Display System collects real-time flight data and displays it on digital screens across the airport. Powered by Scala’s software, these digital screens show passengers’ flight schedules, boarding gates, delays, baggage claim areas, and emergency announcements, 24/7.
How can FIDS Make a Difference?
1. Arrival/Departure Gates – When travellers arrive at the airport, they can instantly see flight schedules and flight transfer details.
2. Check-In Area – Show check-in status and baggage information.
3. Security Areas – Passengers can stay informed about their flights or any important announcements.
4. Boarding Gate – Show real-time boarding updates or gate changes to ensure passengers avoid delays.
5. Baggage Claim – As passengers arrive, they can locate their baggage belt with carousel information.
6. Lounges / Flight Transfer Areas – Display important information and even entertainment while passengers are waiting for their boarding times or to keep passengers updated on their connecting flight details.
7. Emergency Alert – Broadcast alerts across screens to ensure safety and smooth crowd management.
Key technical components of a FIDS include:
- Data Integration Modules: Real-time data from airline operational databases (AODB) and other airport systems.
- Scala’s Content Management Software: For customisation of layouts based on branding, scheduling and publishing content across different airport zones.
- API Connectivity: Integration with third-party systems such as weather services or public announcement systems.
How Scala’s FIDS Works in Practice
Scala’s FIDS receives flight operational data from the airport’s AODB and processes it through dynamic content management software. The system then distributes data to digital display units located in terminals using secure network connections. Content layouts are customised to ensure relevant branding and information is on display. Emergency alerts can override regular signage instantly, utilising integrated audio systems for comprehensive communication.
Why Choose Scala for Your Airport’s FIDS?
Scala’s Flight Information Display System can enhance airports with its scalability and easy integration. Its robust architecture is designed for regional airport hubs in India to international mega-terminals.
Discover how Scala’s FIDS solutions can elevate the airport and passenger experience, visit scala.com/in
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a Flight Information Display System (FIDS)?
FIDS displays flight schedules, gate assignments, boarding statuses, baggage claim information, weather updates, emergency alerts, and more.
2. How can airport systems be integrated with FIDS?
FIDS has flexible APIs that can connect with databases, passenger flow management, public announcement systems, or third-party services to deliver data in real-time.
3. How does FIDS handle emergency communication?
FIDS can broadcast emergency alerts visually on screens instantly and trigger audio paging throughout the airport to ensure safety and swift passenger notification.
4. What makes Scala’s FIDS suitable for Indian airports?
Scala’s system is designed for 24/7 reliability, supports multiple Indian languages, complies with global aviation data standards, and provides centralised management suitable for the complex environments typical of Indian airports.
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.
