TK Elevator (TKE) has announced the implementation of its MAX Automate system at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, making it the world’s first major airport to remotely operate all 129 of its passenger boarding bridges (PBBs) across five terminals.
The technology, which allows centralised control of PBBs, is designed to streamline processes, enhance safety with advanced sensors and cameras, and improve sustainability by cutting down on apron vehicle movements and associated emissions.
“MAX Automate represents a paradigm shift in airport operations," said Ignacio Medina, CEO of airport solutions at TK Elevator.
"By pioneering this system in Madrid, we've demonstrated how PBB automation can be implemented at scale and our commitment to driving digital transformation in the aviation industry. This solidifies TKE’s position as a leader in the PBB automation path. MAX Automate is an innovation that keeps evolving, pushing airports to move beyond traditional operations and adopt digital technologies that will shape the future of seamless, efficient airport management.”
Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport is Spain’s largest and ranks among the top five airports in Europe. The deployment of MAX Automate is expected to improve the airport’s operational efficiency.
The MAX Automate platform integrates both hardware and software to offer three modular levels of operation. The remote control system allows operators to control multiple PBBs from a central station, removing the need to transfer personnel between stands.
Automatic docking assistance relies on stereo cameras and visual algorithms for precise docking, while remote automatic docking assistance combines the two features.
In Madrid, the system is managed from three control rooms, allowing staff to monitor and operate all 129 PBBs.
Image: TK Elevator