Congestion
More than just a timekeeping issue
Congestion is the most visible consequence of operational inefficiency at an airport. Even the smallest holdups in the system can have a dramatic knock-on effect, leading to delays or even missed slots.
Aside from frustrated passengers, congestion also causes environment problems due to increased emissions; unnecessary cost due to increased fuel consumption and possible cancellation of flights; and bad PR for the airport, its service provider and associated businesses.
There are two main causes of congestion:
- Existing systems and technology that don’t have the flexibility to deal with unexpected problems. This is often because of poor communication due to infrastructure and procedural inefficiencies.
- Major problems, such as severe weather, ash clouds or industrial action. While these can’t be anticipated, the effects can be mitigated with more efficient systems and technology to get things up and running again as quickly as possible.
Adopting an integrated approach
We can help minimise the effects of congestion by making sure ATC systems and airport management systems work more closely together in order to eliminate knock-on effects. Our all-round knowledge of the way airports and ANSPs work allows us to integrate different functions more efficiently, reducing congestion in the air and on the ground.
We are currently working on a capacity enhancement study at Mumbai and Delhi International Airports in order to analyse ways of reducing congestion, enhancing productivity and increasing operational efficiency. We are conducting similar airport capacity studies in Ireland, Turkey, Bahrain, Japan and Australia.
To find out more about our projects worldwide, visit our interactive world map.