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Energy-Efficient Lighting Solutions For Sustainable Airports
HIGHWAYS TODAY
Energy-Efficient Lighting Solutions For Sustainable AirportsBrightening the Future: Energy-Efficient Lighting Solutions for Sustainable Airports As critical global transportation hubs, airports operate continuously, demanding extensive and reliable lighting solutions. The vast energy consumption associated with traditional lighting systems not only results in high operational costs but also contributes to significant environmental impacts. Adopting energy-efficient lighting solutions has become a pivotal strategy as the aviation industry moves towards greater sustainability. This blog explores the importance of energy-efficient lighting for airports, the benefits of modern lighting technologies, and successful implementations and future trends. As global attention increasingly shifts towards sustainability, airports face mounting pressure to reduce their environmental impact. A significant step towards achieving this goal involves adopting energy-efficient lighting solutions. Airports are among the most energy-intensive facilities, operating around the clock and requiring extensive lighting for runways, terminals, parking areas, and other facilities. Traditional lighting systems, such as incandescent and fluorescent lights, consume large amounts of electricity and have shorter lifespans, resulting in higher energy bills and frequent maintenance requirements. Energy-efficient lighting solutions, particularly LED (Light Emitting Diode) lights, represent a significant advancement in sustainable airport management. LEDs consume up to 75% less energy than traditional lighting, leading to immediate electricity costs and reductions in carbon emissions. Moreover, LEDs boast significantly longer operational lives, often up to 25 times longer than conventional bulbs. This longevity reduces the frequency of replacements, lowering maintenance costs and minimizing disruptions to airport operations. In addition to economic benefits, modern lighting solutions offer improved light quality, enhancing visibility and safety in critical areas such as runways and taxiways. The superior illumination LEDs support safer flight operations and create a more comfortable and pleasant environment for passengers in terminals and other public spaces. Several airports worldwide have successfully implemented energy-efficient lighting solutions, demonstrating tangible benefits across various operational areas. For instance, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) achieved a remarkable 75% reduction in energy consumption following a comprehensive transition to LED lighting across terminals, parking structures, and airfields. Similarly, Manchester Airport’s adoption of energy-efficient lighting led to a 60% decrease in energy usage while enhancing safety and operational efficiency in its facilities, besides a 50% decrease in carbon emissions. Looking ahead, the future of airport lighting promises even greater efficiency and sustainability through advancements in smart lighting systems and renewable energy integration. Smart lighting technologies, utilizing sensors and IoT (Internet of Things) capabilities, enable airports to dynamically adjust lighting levels based on real-time conditions and occupancy, further optimizing energy use. Additionally, innovations in solar-powered lighting solutions offer promising opportunities for airports located in sunny regions to harness renewable energy sources for their lighting needs. Transitioning to energy-efficient lighting solutions represents a strategic investment for airports seeking to enhance sustainability, reduce operational costs, and improve the overall passenger experience. By embracing these modern technologies, airports can advance global efforts toward a greener future while bolstering their economic resilience and operational efficiency. This article was originally published by TAV Technologies.
airport
Aug 15, 2024
$566 Million From Bipartisan Infrastructure Law To Modernise Airports
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$566 Million From Bipartisan Infrastructure Law To Modernise AirportsThe Biden-Harris Administration has announced the allocation of 566.4 million USD through 296 grants aimed at modernising US airports. This funding is awarded under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Airport Infrastructure Grants (AIG) programme. In total, the programme is providing 25 billion USD for airport and air traffic control infrastructure improvements. The AIG funds are designated for a range of projects including airport planning, development, sustainability initiatives, terminal expansions, baggage system upgrades, runway safety enhancements, and noise compatibility projects. As Americans fly in record numbers, the Biden-Harris Administration is improving our nation’s airports to make travel more convenient for passengers. The funding we’re announcing today, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will help airports across the country make needed improvements to ensure safety, efficiency, and sustainability for years to come. The funding aims to improve the safety and efficiency of airfield operations. Specific upgrades include improved runway and taxiway configurations, enhanced signage, better lighting, and upgraded pavement markings. Among the airports receiving grants are: Kailua/Kona Ellison Onizuka Kona International at Keahole, Hawaii: 49.6 million USD for the rehabilitation of Runway 17/35 to enhance safety. Seattle-Tacoma International, Washington: 45.4 million USD for structural, seismic, and building system upgrades to Concourse S to meet modern design standards. Charlotte/Douglas International, North Carolina: 43.3 million USD for the construction of a deicing pad, taxiways, aircraft parking areas, and other infrastructure to meet current FAA standards. Louisville Muhammad Ali International, Kentucky: 34.6 million USD to expand the existing terminal by 31,049 square feet, including a TSA checkpoint, solar microgrid, and emergency generator installation. Harry Reid International, Las Vegas, Nevada: 20.6 million USD to replace elevators, enhancing safety and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International, Georgia: 20.1 million USD for the rehabilitation of taxiways and taxilanes to improve safety. Sacramento International, California: 18.2 million USD for the reconstruction of a pedestrian walkway to enhance safety. Louis Armstrong New Orleans International, Louisiana: 13.5 million USD to install a new people mover system for more efficient passenger movement through the terminal. Moline Quad Cities International, Illinois: 8.2 million USD to expand the existing terminal by 14,116 square feet, facilitating improved passenger and baggage movement to meet current standards. These grants represent the ninth round of AIG funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, reinforcing the administration’s ongoing commitment to modernising US infrastructure.
airport
Aug 14, 2024
Phase 1 Of Pdx Terminal Core Redevelopment Project Completed
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Phase 1 Of Pdx Terminal Core Redevelopment Project CompletedSkanska and Hoffman Construction Company have completed phase one of Portland International Airport’s (PDX) Terminal Core Redevelopment Project (TCORE). The completion of this four-year undertaking marks a key milestone in the PDX Next initiative, which is designed to enhance the airport’s infrastructure and capacity. The primary TCORE project will increase the size of the airport’s ticket lobby and introduce a variety of modern features, including a renovated passenger entry terminal, a 9-acre mass timber roof, and expanded space for local restaurants and shops. These enhancements aim to meet the growing demand from passengers and improve the overall travel experience. Phase one of the TCORE project includes vital seismic resilience upgrades and the replacement of outdated systems and infrastructure. The airport now features new airline check-in areas, a public space with stadium seating, a mezzanine restaurant, 12 new permanent local shops and restaurants, improved security processes, new art exhibits, and updated flooring, including the return of PDX’s iconic carpet. The terminal’s design incorporates biophilic elements inspired by the Pacific Northwest, such as increased natural daylight and green spaces featuring live trees and foliage throughout. Hoffman has completed more than a dozen projects at Portland International Airport over the last 26 years, but the Terminal Core project is a once-in-a-lifetime accomplishment that required outside-the-box innovation and sheer determination. Our team’s ability to bring a cutting-edge mass timber design to an operational airport is something we’re very proud of, and we hope we’ve helped set PDX up to be the best airport in the US for many years to come. Key achievements during phase one include the successful movement and installation of the 9-acre roof structure. The Hoffman Skanska Joint Venture prefabricated the roof in 14 rectangular sections, which were then transported and assembled above the terminal using hydraulic jacks and self-propelled modular transports. The structure was then secured atop 23 giant Y-columns. Completing phase one of the Portland International Airport project demonstrates our team’s ingenuity, expertise, and commitment to delivering high-quality construction projects. We are proud of the modernisation efforts that will support PDX’s growth and enhance the travel experience for millions of passengers. The mass timber roof is a true engineering feat and stands to be a main attraction in the Pacific Northwest. Sustainability has been a central focus throughout this undertaking, with the project aiming for LEED Gold certification. The new design includes a ground-sourced heating and cooling system, energy-efficient lighting, water-saving fixtures, and improved waste management practices, significantly reducing the airport’s environmental impact. Seismic resilience has also been prioritised. The roof and curtain wall system are engineered to move up to 24 inches in any direction during a seismic event, minimising structural damage. This flexibility is achieved through seismic base isolation bearings and hinged connections that allow the structure to slide and pivot as needed. With phase one complete, the project now moves into its second phase, which will further expand airport facilities, including additional retail spaces, more escalators to baggage claim, and seating areas for waiting passengers. Completion of phase two is expected in 2026.
airport
Aug 14, 2024
Plaza Express Opens At London Gatwick Airport’S North Terminal
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Plaza Express Opens At London Gatwick Airport’S North TerminalPlaza Express is now open at London Gatwick Airport’s north terminal departure. The new opening is ideal for larger groups and families alike looking to kick-start their holiday in a fun and casual way, offering leisure travelers the ‘Plaza Premium Lounge’ hospitality but with more affordable entry rates, high-speed Wi-Fi, cozy zoned seating and delicious food and drink. Tailored for travelers seeking to enjoy light bites in a cozy setting, while offering runway views and a peaceful escape from the typical departure chaos, the lounge serves a delicious choice of breakfast from the buffet in the mornings until 11am. Throughout the day, guests can visit the “build-your-own-dish” stations where guests and children alike can make their own burger, hot dog and salad at the ‘help yourself buffet’ stations, while fresh pizzas are prepared hot and fresh from the oven. All food, beer and soft drinks are unlimited. The family-friendly lounge – that has a dedicated play area for little ones and a pool table for the big kids – is ready to welcome guests on the first stop of their travels, open daily from 5am to 4pm. A ‘Quick and Easy’ package allows you to one-time access into Plaza Express and stay up to 1.5 hours, this includes unlimited food and beverages (£18 for adults) or you can upgrade to include wines at £25 per adult for 2 hours of access. Children under 11 go free with each accompanying adult. This can be booked in advance through the Plaza Premium Lounge website here. This is the latest addition by the Plaza Premium Group, who owns and operates the world’s largest independent lounge network – Plaza Premium Lounge. Plaza Express marks the brand’s seventh opening in the UK and its’ second at London Gatwick, already home to the Plaza Premium Lounge also at North Terminal departure. It's with great pleasure that we announce our UK expansion with the launch of the new Plaza Express at London Gatwick Airport. The concept created allows us to expand our offering to a wider group of travelers with affordable entry prices to a vibrant inviting space and embrace the holiday spirit. Plaza Express is also a wonderful opportunity for large families travelling together to start their holiday in a warm, welcoming and spacious environment with an attractive entry price for adults and children. We look forward to putting smiles on our customer’s faces and continuing to bring our award-winning experience to serve travelers. This article was originally published by Plaza Premium Group.
airport
Aug 14, 2024
Pittsburgh International Airport To Open New Terminal In 2025
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Pittsburgh International Airport To Open New Terminal In 2025Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) is progressing work on its new terminal, which is set to open in 2025. This new facility aims to enhance the airport experience by focusing on three core principles: Nature, Technology, and Community (NaTeCo). The terminal will deliver more open spaces, fewer logjams, calming art and modern features. It will span across three levels with a commercial curb on the first floor, arrivals on the second floor and departures on the third. Throughout the facility, specific design choices will align with the NaTeCo theme. This will include four outdoor terraces, tree columns and leaf designs in the flooring, and 4,000 constellation lights on the ceiling. By creating a sense of space with nature, the airport aims to offer an escape from the hustle and bustle of travel. The keys to designing the new terminal at PIT were open volumes and intuitive wayfinding for passengers. It’s open, it’s airy, it’s intuitive, because you can see everything you need to see. The new terminal will reintroduce people to Pittsburgh. It will reintroduce Pittsburgh not only to the U.S. but to the world. It will rebrand Pittsburgh. This new terminal will open along with a 5,000-space parking structure and roadway system.
airport
Aug 13, 2024
The Rise Of Portable Digitisation In Airports
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The Rise Of Portable Digitisation In AirportsPortable kiosks in particular are becoming a regular feature, providing adaptable and flexible options for airport infrastructure. Read on to learn how portable digitisation is transforming the airport experience, from self-service check-ins to duty-free shopping. First, we should clarify what we mean by portable digitisation. While digitisation is the conversion of information from an analogue to a digital format, portable digitisation refers to the use of digital technology within portable kiosks. These kiosks can move and adapt to the needs of the airport and its customers. For example airports are increasingly deploying portable digitisation for services such as: Portable digitisation is becoming an ingrained part of daily existence. Wearable technology for instance is valued at $61.3 billion and on an upward trajectory, while mobile phones continue to evolve, with increased portable digitisation options. The aviation sector recognises these trends, integrating portable airport kiosks alongside current static solutions. Combining digital solutions within the airport allows for optimised operations and a streamlined passenger experience. Airports are becoming more like smart cities, with increasing technology needs and commerce opportunities. And it’s no wonder the market is growing rapidly, almost back to its pre-pandemic rate of air traffic. What’s interesting to note is that, as airports thrive, the global portable kiosk market is also seeing significant growth, businesses within the aviation sector are increasingly seeking adaptable and versatile solutions to optimise the customer experience and streamline operations. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key applications airport kiosks are being put to: Self-service check-in kiosks are one of the first use cases in the digitisation of airports. Passengers can access omnichannel user experiences within one interface, helping streamline the journey and improve efficiencies. From using the kiosk for check-in to printing boarding passes, integrations within the kiosk allow the user to tailor their journey to meet their individual needs. Portable kiosks can further improve the passenger experience. Their adaptability enables them to be strategically placed to avoid potential queuing and help with the steady flow of the passenger journey. Placed where airport staff may have previously directed and managed self-check-in, airport employees can now use their skills for higher-level tasks, enhancing the customer journey. Baggage kiosks offer a speedy and efficient way to drop off bags. This process is relatively simple: first, they can weigh bags to ensure no additional charges, and then payment can be collected at this initial stage for any overweight baggage. Further integrations enable passengers to manage their bags remotely from drop-off to collection. Integrated RFID readers allow for track and trace of baggage throughout its airport journey, with status updates available to help reduce lost luggage and streamline services. This is a perfect example of how portable kiosks offer greater convenience to passengers. A one-step bag drop allows passengers to check in for their reservation, indicate how many bags are being checked, print bag tags, pay any applicable fees, and drop off their bags in one simple step. Over 50% of passengers have expressed interest in using electronic bag tags, making portable bag drop kiosks a valuable addition. Portable kiosks specifically tailored for retail are easy to set up and can be deployed across duty-free shops. These provide, engaging customer touchpoints as soon as consumers enter the store. Integrated software in these kiosks can also offer applications such as scan-and-go purchasing and click-and-collect. With the exponential rise of e-commerce since the pandemic, a customer-centric journey through a tailored portable kiosk can be a great enhancement for revenue streams for airports. Another key application of portable kiosks is their ability to streamline food and drink orders, offering passengers the convenience of placing orders from anywhere within the airport. These kiosks can be strategically placed in waiting areas, lounges, and food courts, reducing congestion at counters and improving service speed. Passengers can browse menus, customise their orders, and make payments directly through the kiosks, receiving notifications when their order is ready for pickup. This reduces wait times and enhances the overall dining experience at the airport. At imageHOLDERS, we are an award-winning, provider and manufacturer of airport kiosks. We have witnessed firsthand how portable digitisation in airports is transforming the way passengers travel, from self-service check-in and baggage solutions to duty-free retail and food orders. We embody this innovation in all our services, and our portable airport kiosks solutions have been deployed by some of the world’s leading airlines and continue to be placed in some of the largest airports globally. This article was originally published by imageHOLDERS.
airport
Aug 12, 2024
Uk: Hydrogen Refuelling Station Planned At Teesside International Airport
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Uk: Hydrogen Refuelling Station Planned At Teesside International AirportPlans for a new hydrogen refuelling station at Teesside International Airport (MME) have been submitted to Darlington Borough Council. This is part of a project to build four publicly accessible hydrogen refuelling stations in the Tees Valley region. These stations, funded by the UK government, will supply hydrogen to airport vehicles, delivery trucks, vans and other vehicles. The plans are led by hydrogen refuelling company, Element 2. Element 2 is building the first national network of reliable, safe, high-quality hydrogen refuelling stations across the UK, and this airport site helps drive this ambition. We are delighted to work with Teesside International Airport, Innovate UK and local commercial fleets to help reduce transport emissions in the Tees Valley. The new station will be built on land near the former St George Hotel. Its operation will support the airport’s mission to become operationally net zero by 2030. We’re all working very hard to make Teesside a modern airport pushing boundaries and making people proud. We’re flying more people to more destinations, but we’re also adding more strings to our bow, with our cargo facility, the business park, new hangars and our green energy ambitions. This hydrogen refuelling station is another part of that push. We’re pioneering 5G technology and now we’re pioneering clean energy fuels which will all help to boost our airport. In 2021, Teesside Airport trialled a temporary refuelling station for low-emission hydrogen-fuelled vehicles. This included cars, a truck, a forklift, a van and a tug as part of a regional trial. We were one of the first areas to trial hydrogen fuels and it’s great to see we’re still leading the charge with this new station. This hydrogen station is another step forward to supporting the cleaner, healthier and safer industries of tomorrow – and airport is leading the charge. It also adds to what we’re doing in backing the production and adoption of sustainable aviation fuel, which is set to be bring hundreds more well-paid jobs to our region. The next step here is approval and I’m looking forward to seeing spades in the ground on yet another cutting-edge project at our airport. Funding for the wider project comes from Innovate UK, the UK’s innovation agency.
airport
Aug 12, 2024
Uk Caa Report Highlights Improved Accessibility Standards At Airports
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Uk Caa Report Highlights Improved Accessibility Standards At AirportsThe UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has released its annual Airport Accessibility report for April 2023 to March 2024, showing positive trends in the treatment of passengers with reduced mobility and disabilities across the country’s airports. Notably, for the first time since 2020, no UK airport received a ‘poor’ rating for accessibility, reflecting the sector’s ongoing efforts to enhance services for all passengers. The CAA’s report ranks UK airports with an annual passenger volume exceeding 150,000 based on their accommodation and treatment of passengers requiring assistance. This year, 11 airports were rated ‘very good’ for their accessibility services, 12 airports received a ‘good’ rating, and only five were found to ‘need improvement.’ The ‘very good’ category included airports such as Belfast City, City of Derry, Cornwall Newquay, East Midlands, Glasgow Prestwick, Leeds Bradford, London Stansted, Newcastle, and Teesside. Airports rated as ‘good’ included Aberdeen, Belfast International, Birmingham, Bournemouth, Edinburgh, Exeter, Inverness, London City, London Luton, Manchester, and Sumburgh. Notably, London Heathrow progressed from a ‘needs improvement’ rating in 2022/2023 to ‘good,’ following significant investment in staff for accessibility support services. However, the report identified that Bristol, London Gatwick, Cardiff Wales, Liverpool, and Norwich airports ‘need improvement.’ These airports are being encouraged by the CAA to take further action to enhance their accessibility services. Despite the progress noted in the report, the CAA stressed that more needs to be done to ensure that the experience of disabled passengers is on par with that of other travellers. Making aviation accessible to all is an important part of our work to protect the public and enable the aerospace sector. Progress is being made, and not rating any airports ‘poor’ this year is welcome, but there’s more work to do, especially by those airports we have rated ‘needs improvement’ in our report. We will continue to work with the sector to ensure that standards are maintained and improved. The Airport Accessibility Framework, introduced by the CAA in 2014, has been instrumental in driving improvements across UK airports over the past decade. The framework outlines the CAA’s expectations for the treatment of passengers with disabilities and reduced mobility, and the annual publication of accessibility results serves to hold the industry accountable. In response to a significant increase in demand for accessibility services, the CAA has continued to engage with airports, encouraging them to increase staffing levels and invest in equipment, particularly during the quieter winter months. The regulator has also introduced a new element to the report, providing a deeper assessment of specific airports. This year, London Heathrow, London Stansted, and London Luton underwent more detailed evaluations, a practice that will continue in future reports. In addition to the airport accessibility report, the CAA has published a new accessibility framework for airlines. This guidance, developed in consultation with passengers, industry stakeholders, disability charities, and consumer groups, aims to complement the airport framework. It is designed to provide transparency on airline performance and to drive improvements in the accessibility of air travel for passengers flying from the UK. Everyone has the right to travel with dignity, and it is clear that more needs to be done to make accessible and enjoyable flying a reality for everyone. I look forward to working closely with the UK Civil Aviation Authority and industry on this important matter. I am pleased to see the Civil Aviation Authority’s new airline performance framework, to ensure airlines are providing passengers with the best possible service when they fly and are working to improve accessibility of the sector.
airport
Aug 09, 2024
Changi Airport Offers Passport-Free Immigration
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Changi Airport Offers Passport-Free ImmigrationIn Singapore, Changi Airport is launching passport-free immigration checkpoints for arriving passengers. This initiative is part of the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority’s (ICA) New Clearance Concept (NCC). It aims to bolster border security and enhance traveller convenience through digitalisation. The new system offers two passport-free methods for a smoother and quicker clearance process: Token-less clearance at air and sea checkpoints: Allows Singapore residents on arrival and departure, as well as all foreign travellers at departure, to clear immigration using only facial and iris biometrics. QR code clearance at land checkpoints: Allows travellers to use a QR code instead of a passport for immigration clearance. Token-less clearance is facilitated by advance manifests submitted by airlines and ship operators, which provide ICA with traveller information before arrival. This data enables the use of biometric technology for a streamlined clearance process. At land checkpoints, where advance traveller information is not available, ICA has introduced QR codes as an identification token. ICA began implementing the QR code clearance system at land checkpoints on 19 March 2024 for car travellers, extending it to bus drivers on 15 April 2024. Currently, over 70% of car travellers and bus drivers utilise QR codes for immigration clearance. Live-trials for token-less clearance at Changi Airport have since commenced on 5 August 2024 for arriving Singapore residents in Changi Airport Terminal 3. The implementation will extend to all terminals at Changi Airport by September 2024 and to Marina Bay Cruise Centre by December 2024. Token-less clearance is projected to reduce immigration clearance time by 40%. Despite the move towards passport-free clearance, travellers must still carry their passports for immigration clearance at overseas destinations.  ICA may occasionally require passport presentation for verification purposes.
airport
Aug 08, 2024
Finavia Completes Renovation Project At Kuopio Airport
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Finavia Completes Renovation Project At Kuopio AirportFinavia has completed a comprehensive renovation project at Kuopio Airport in Finland. This project has significantly enhanced the airport’s runway and taxiway infrastructure to ensure the smooth and safe operation of air traffic at Kuopio Airport. The work spanned three years and cost nearly 20 million EUR. The renovation involved extensive asphalting of the runway, widening and resurfacing of the taxiways, and modernisation of the airport lighting system. These improvements were essential to maintaining high safety standards and efficiency in airport operations. Over the past three years, Finavia has made significant investments in the development of Kuopio Airport's air traffic areas. Thanks to the good planning work, the project was completed within the original budget and schedule. Finavia’s environmental goals were integral to this project. For example, the airport’s lighting system was upgraded to energy-efficient LED technology. This included replacing runway and taxiway light fixtures and installing 12.5 kilometres of new cable routes. Additionally, the stormwater sewer network was renovated to improve stormwater management, reducing the environmental impact of airport operations. Given Kuopio Airport’s proximity to water, special care was also taken throughout the project to protect the surrounding environment. We understand that as the owner of the airport, Finavia plays an important role in providing energy-efficient solutions for companies operating at the airport. In addition, our goal is to build infrastructure that enables those operating at the airport to develop sustainable operations. Flights to Kuopio Airport, which were paused from 24 June to 6 August 2024, have now resumed on 7 August 2024.
airport
Aug 07, 2024