THE AIRPORT

OPERATOR THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE AIRPORT OPERATORS ASSOCIATION

CHRIS GRAYLING’S message to UK airports: “When you succeed, so does the UK”

Features LUTON AIRPORT on track to deliver a 40% growth transformed terminal in passenger numbers by 2033 to boost reputation

FALCON SHIELD AIRPORT system detects, tracks, 2019 will be a year of SPRING 2019 identifies and defeats drones resurgence for the airport 2

WWW.AOA.ORG.UK 3 ED ANDERSON Introduction to the Airport Operator THE AIRPORT environmental challenges and place A very warm the passenger at the heart of their OPERATOR businesses. They also know just how THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE AIRPORT OPERATORS ASSOCIATION welcome to the important aviation growth will be to the success of the UK economy at AIRPORT OPERATORS ASSOCIATION spring edition both national and regional levels. Ed Anderson of The Airport As well as the discussions with the Chairman Operator, Transport Secretary’s colleagues and Karen Dee officials on the Aviation Strategy we Chief Executive published have also been grateful for continuous Richard Atkin engagement with his Department Accounts Executive to coincide with our 2019 on Brexit-related issues. That has Jeff Bevan Annual Dinner at London’s helped our airports to plan for the full Policy & Public Affairs Officer range of possible outcomes and we Grosvenor House Hotel. have been encouraged by the strong Claire Humphries We are delighted once again to have opposition that has emerged to earlier Events & Member so many distinguished guests from Relations Manager European Commission proposals to across the aviation sector at what is place an artificial cap on flights by UK Peter O’Broin now firmly established as the largest airlines from our airports to the EU. Senior Policy Manager networking dinner in the UK aviation Patricia Page calendar and especially pleased to In this edition of our magazine you will Executive Assistant have secured Transport Secretary, find informative contributions not only & Office Manager Chris Grayling, as our keynote from Chris Grayling, but also from Richard Moriarty, Chief Executive of Tania Roca speaker. Operations, Safety the Civil Aviation Authority, and from He joins us at an eventful time for our & Commercial Director Robert Light, Head Commissioner of sector a month before the closing the new Independent Commission Henk van Klaveren date of his Department’s consultation Head of Public Affairs & PR on Civil Aviation Noise. There are on its Aviation Strategy which will also interviews with three recently- set the regulatory framework for UK appointed airport CEOs – Steve AIRPORT OPERATORS ASSOCIATION aviation for the next 30 years. We Szalay at Aberdeen, Nick Barton at 3 Birdcage Walk, look forward to hearing what he has Birmingham and Alberto Martin at London SW1H 9JJ to say about that. London Luton. The AOA and its member airports will Finally, as many of you will know, I am be responding in detail to the Green T: +44 (0)20 7799 3171 retiring this month as AOA Chairman E: [email protected] Paper and we have been assisted in to enable me to spend more time in W: www.aoa.org.uk preparing our responses by a series my new role as Lord-Lieutenant of of discussions with Department for West Yorkshire. Over the page you Transport officials on a wide range will find some of my own reflections Michael Burrell of issues, including consumer policy, on how our industry has changed out Editor surface access and sustainability. of all recognition in recent decades

It is already clear that we will be and on what the future holds for UK asking the Government to ensure that airports. THE AIRPORT OPERATOR the final document sets out a policy MAGAZINE IS PRODUCED BY Here I should only like to say what an framework that clearly supports honour it has been to serve as AOA growth and takes appropriate account Chairman for over a decade, to thank of the perspectives of the whole my AOA Board colleagues and the Shimon Speigel range of our airports, from the largest hard-working AOA team, now ably Creative Director to the smallest, from passenger to led by Karen Dee, and to wish my Natalia Lacerda freight and including General Aviation. successor well. They will find that Graphic Designer We will be re-emphasising that our they are inheriting an Association in GENIUM airports recognise their responsibility good shape and representing a world- Studio 27 to develop sustainably, with leading industry poised to make Quadrant Business Centre an even greater contribution to our 135 Salusbury Road appropriate policies in place to deal country’s future success. London NW6 6RJ with both carbon emissions and noise. Our airports know that they T: +44 (0)20 7089 2622 will only secure “a licence to grow” Ed Anderson, AOA Chairman E: [email protected] if their growth plans deal with our W: www.geniumcreative.com 4

THE AOA IS PLEASED TO WORK WITH ITS CORPORATE PARTNERS, AND GOLD AND SILVER MEMBERS

Corporate Partners

Gold Members

Silver Members

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RETIRING AOA CHAIRMAN PREDICTS BRIGHT FUTURE FOR UK AIRPORTS

Ed Anderson says the industry has changed “out of all recognition” since the 1980’s

d Anderson, who retires as Finance Director, which he held for He traces his involvement with Chairman of the AOA this month three years. the AOA back to the first annual Eafter over a decade in the post, conference that he attended in 1982, forecasts “very good prospects” for In the late 1980s he was Finance noting that he has attended 26 annual UK airports, as passenger demand Director and deputy CEO at East conferences and 31 annual dinners, continues to grow. Midlands Airport at a time when 12 of them as Chairman. He was it was just starting to become AOA Chairman in 2001/2 and then In a wide-ranging valedictory an important base for freight subsequently Chairman since 2008. interview with Airport Operator, operations. Although it is now 30 he also expressed pride in the years’ ago, he retains vivid memories contribution that he had made of the Kegworth air disaster, when towards establishing the AOA as the a British Midland plane crashed on primary representative body for UK the M1 while attempting to make an Turning to aviation. emergency landing at East Midlands. He expresses admiration for the changes in the Looking back over a long career in honesty and courage that British aviation industry UK airports, Mr Anderson said that Midland owner, Michael Bishop, the industry had changed out of all showed in handling the aftermath over recent recognition since the 1990’s, with the of the crash. rise of low-cost carriers, increasing decades, he said emphasis on environmental issues Ed Anderson returned to Leeds and a new recognition on the part Bradford as CEO in 1997 and one key change of Government of the benefits remained in that post for ten years, was that the that aviation brings to the wider during which passenger numbers economy. grew from a million to nearly three balance of power million. He was involved in the Ed Anderson’s involvement with UK negotiations that led to Jet2.com’s between airports airports stretches back to the late decision to select Leeds Bradford 1970s, when he provided financial as its headquarters and main UK and airlines has evidence for base and to launch a steadily changed “out of all at a public inquiry on plans for a new growing number of routes from runway extension. The plans were there to European city and sunshine recognition” since approved and in the early 1980s destinations. the airport created a new post of the 1980s.

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Ed Anderson, AOA Chairman

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Reflecting on how the AOA has changed, he says that in the 1980s it was primarily a social club for airport directors. It started to get a little more involved in lobbying Government in the 1990’s, but the great expansion in its role as the representative body for UK airports has taken place during his spell as Chairman. He takes quiet pride in the part that he has played in “raising the AOA’s game”, establishing it as the UK’s leading aviation representative body, while also paying tribute to AOA CEOs, Darren Caplan and Karen Dee.

Mr Anderson’s Chairmanship of the AOA coincided with the establishment of the Airports Commission review into airport capacity in the South East and the Ed Anderson, at the 2018 subsequent decision by Government Annual Conference and Parliament to back the construction of a new runway at Heathrow. He acknowledges that this process presented challenges drivers of the enormous growth in would be crucial in setting a in terms of preserving unity on the passenger traffic, but they had also framework for the next 30 years that AOA Board and expresses the belief been “absolutely ruthless” in using would enable those airports that that “we navigated that pretty well”. their market power by shifting or wished to grow to do so. threatening to shift their planes from Asked what advice he would offer one airport to another that might be Ed Anderson’s retirement as AOA his successor, Mr Anderson said he “more accommodating”. Chairman immediately following hoped that there would continue the AOA’s 2019 Annual Dinner will to be a focus on the AOA’s role as A third important change since the enable him to spend more time on UK aviation’s leading representative 1980’s had been the inexorable rise his new role as Lord-Lieutenant of body, that the new Chair would to prominence of environmental West Yorkshire, the Queen’s personal provide strong support for the issues and challenges. Mr Anderson representative in the county. He has CEO and that they would always said he thought that the industry had been in post since 1 September 2018 remember the importance of unity, reacted well to that. The creation and has already arranged two royal both among the airports themselves of Sustainable Aviation had been visits (including one from Prince and, where possible, across the “absolutely critical” in enabling UK Charles), with at least another three aviation sector as a whole. aviation to be “on the front foot” in the pipeline. and to secure recognition from Turning to changes in the aviation Government that the industry is Mr Anderson relishes a role that industry over recent decades, he being proactive in dealing with was first created by Henry VIII said one key change was that the environmental issues. and especially the opportunities balance of power between airports that it will give him to support the and airlines has changed “out of all A fourth important development was voluntary sector in West Yorkshire recognition” since the 1980s. The “the recognition that there is now and to present medals and awards time when airports had standardised on the part of Government of the on behalf of the sovereign. He scales of fees, which they increased benefits that our industry brings to may be somewhat relieved that annually, had long gone, to be the economy”. Lord-Lieutenants no longer retain replaced by tough negotiations their responsibility for organising a between airports and airlines. Mr Anderson’s overall conclusion is county’s militia or their right to call that “the prospects for UK airports upon able-bodied men to fight when This was a result of the second are very good”. He foresaw that needed.  key change, the rise of EasyJet, more and more people would and the other low-cost want to fly and suggested that the Ed Anderson is AOA Chairman carriers. They had been the primary Government’s Aviation Strategy

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Ian Smyth, Director of UK Power Networks Services

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SAFE CONTINUITY OF ELECTRICITY SUPPLY “KEY TO KEEPING PASSENGERS MOVING”

Ian Smyth, Director of UK Power Networks Services, explores the impact of a one-second power interruption.

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K airports are under enormous infrastructure solutions for Heathrow, To ensure maximum network pressure to ensure they have Gatwick, Manchester, Stansted, reliability, the most important parts Uthe capacity to keep up London City and Luton airports, of the airport need to be supplied with demand, which in turn affects we understand the challenges UK by the most resilient parts of the the performance of the energy airports are facing. electricity network. Unfortunately, infrastructure that keeps them this is not always the case as running around the clock. As they Our airports provide connectivity airports have expanded quickly to expand to meet these pressures, between the UK and the rest of the meet expectations and demands airports around the country are world – any impact to the seamless of passengers. Expansion plans greeted with an opportunity to passenger journey has wide- provide airport operators with the reap the benefits of an energy reaching consequences. Ensuring a opportunity to assess and implement transition where the energy market is safe continuity of electricity supply is an electricity network that will be fit decentralising and there is a sharper key to keeping passengers moving. for purpose into the future. focus on sustainability. Maintaining resilience, managing energy costs and reducing the Having an experienced strategic In 2017, UK airports handled more carbon footprint is a delicate and energy infrastructure partner than 285 million passenger journeys. complex balance that all airports are enables airports to outsource That’s an increase of 15 million from currently facing. the design, build, management, 2016 and demand for air travel is operation and maintenance of their set to increase 50 per cent by 2035. Resilience of supply electrical assets. This enables the Based on government figures, if A one-second power interruption airport to remove the risk associated the number of journeys continue to can affect an airport’s operations with managing these assets increase at the current rate without for hours, if not days. Just one themselves and to focus on their expansion programmes, UK airports consequence of this is that all the day-to-day core business and their will reach capacity by the mid- bags on the conveyers need to be customers. 2030s. European hubs are already rescanned and put through the charging ahead to react and provide system again, in addition to an an alternative to the UK’s long-haul ever-growing backlog of luggage hubs. being handled at the airport from In 2017, UK airports departing and arriving passengers. The impact of the required expansion This can mean passengers fly handled more than will have significant implications for to locations all across the globe their energy infrastructure strategy without their bags, causing severe 285 million passenger and operation. As a provider of reputational issues for the airport, power distribution and energy the airline and handling partners. journeys.

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Sustainability Airports are under immense pressure to reduce their carbon emissions to offset those caused by the aircraft using the airports across the UK. All airports are committed to sustainability, with opportunities to achieve every-increasing targets through innovative new energy technologies.

The electrification of ground transportation around the airport is progressing with new vehicles and more efficient charging technologies becoming available. We have deployed electric vans at our Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted and London City Airport depots. This will assist our airport clients reduce emissions across the airport, and we of Europe’s busiest runways takes the direct result of the dedication of are working with them to help them invariable focus, continuous our people who ensure that safety is electrify their own fleets. improvement and innovation, their top priority when they come to and always putting safety before work each day.  Due to the large carbon footprint anything else. that airports occupy, there is opportunity to install renewable The safety of staff, contractors, generation to reduce the costs suppliers and customers in and “The safety of of electricity. The introduction of around the airport is the most technologies like wind turbines and important achievement every day. staff, contractors, solar photovoltaic, however, can be This can only be accomplished difficult due to the distance required through an environment of ongoing, suppliers and for their installation from the main measurable safety enhancements, runways for safety. This forces and a collaborative approach customers in innovative design and planning in between all airport stakeholders. order to best utilise the limited land and around the available to help airports achieve We have achieved an exceptional airport is the their sustainability ambitions. industry-leading safety record while working not only on Europe’s busiest most important Safety runways, but trackside on the UK’s Operating high and low voltage fastest mainline railway, at nuclear achievement electricity networks in the middle sites and at military facilities. This is every day.”

We’re undertaking a very complex the construction of a brand project at new substation away from the CASE STUDY: that will enable them to continue taxiway, underground directional their £1 billion transformation drilling beneath the taxiway and programme. Due to an electricity decommissioning the existing substation located in the middle of substation. This is all being Enabling a taxiway, aircraft are only able to completed in the middle of the Manchester move one-in, one-out, which will very busy and operational taxiway, affect the future expansion and requiring the control of foreign Airport’s capacity of the terminal. object debris and the safety risks that come with working with Transformation Our team are moving the electricity, construction and in an Programme substation, which involves airside environment. THE AIRPORT OPERATOR SPRING 2019 12

Nick Barton, CEO, Birmingham Airport

WWW.AOA.ORG.UK 13 BIRMINGHAM AIRPORT’S BOLD PLANS FOR GROWTH

Birmingham Airport has “a tremendous story” to tell and is on track to deliver a 40% growth in passenger numbers by 2033, according to its new Chief Executive, Nick Barton.

peaking to Airport Operator just weeks after he took on Shis new role in early January, Barton said: “My expectations have been exceeded”, indicating that he had been impressed by the size of the airport’s catchment area, the quality of its transport links, its ambitious investment plans and the passion and enthusiasm of the airport’s team.

His priority in his early weeks in the job will be to review the strategic plan that will provide guidance to staff and shareholders on the airport’s growth objectives and set an ambitious route development disorderly Brexit, declaring his out how it will seek to add capacity plan that will seek to add Lisbon, confidence that the airport’s recent for airlines, improve the passenger Nice, Athens and Helsinki to the record of upward growth will experience, meet environmental European route network and hold continue. He notes that GDP growth targets and take account of the out the possibility of new routes to is still resilient and that plans are interests of local communities. New York, Hong Kong and Toronto. well-developed to enable the airport to deal with a “no deal” Brexit if A consultation on the airport’s draft Barton’s vision is to take what he necessary. Master Plan, which closed at the says is already a good airport to end of January, has shown, Barton another level with a £500 million One of the key factors on which he says, broad support for the airport’s investment plan that will match bases his confidence is the quality plans to grow by making best use the requirements of the airport’s of the airport’s existing surface of its existing single runway and by customers and further justify its access, especially its adjacent offering passengers a greater choice claim to be one of Europe’s leading mainline railway station and network of flights and destinations. That regional airports. He is very of motorways, combined with will entail both improvements in the evidently undaunted by concerns ambitious plans for further dramatic frequency of existing services to key about weakening economic growth improvement. Most important of European business destinations and prospects or the possibility of a these is HS2, the new high- speed

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rail link between London and having already made changes in time delays imposed on departures Birmingham, which is scheduled recent years as a direct result of a from Birmingham due to capacity to open in late 2026, with further runway extension which became constraints. He is optimistic that phases planned northwards to operational in 2014. Now the the Aviation Minister, Baroness Manchester and Leeds. attention is on changes to departure Sugg, will be an effective steward routes to the north of the airport of the agencies that deliver airspace The HS2 plans include a brand- to facilitate additional capacity, change and really drive the process. new Interchange Station close to provide improved efficiencies and He declares himself “very impressed” the airport in Solihull and linked to reduce both track miles flown and with the Minister, whom he describes it by an automated people-mover. CO2 emissions. Barton stresses as “a really effective player” and According to HS2, the new station that, although the changes are says: “she knows that she has a big will be “the best-connected place in challenging, the airport has sought role to play acting as a catalyst for the UK by rail, road and air”. to develop solutions in partnership change to get it delivered”. with community groups. Dialogue He also emphasises the importance with communities has also been As well as “getting airspace sorted of “future-proofing” the road central to the airport’s approach out”, he says that the Government network around Birmingham to noise issues. A recent review of must make also make sure that “the Airport with the help of a £282 night flights has resulted in a policy major role that regional airports play million upgrade to one of the West designed to protect the airport’s in keeping the national economy Midlands’ worst bottlenecks around night time capacity, while also balanced” is underlined and Junction 6 on the M42. Construction minimising noise. supported in the Aviation Strategy, work on a dual carriageway link on which Ministers are currently road is due to start next year, with For Barton, Government has a key consulting. Barton said that, from a completion expected in 2023. role to play in helping airports to Birmingham perspective, the Green deliver a modern air navigational Paper published last December Like other UK airports, Birmingham system, replacing the older, included “really good stuff” and is also focussed on airspace change, inefficient system that has seen peak what the airport would be seeking

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“The Government must make also make sure that the major role that regional airports play in keeping the national economy balanced is underlined and supported.” to do would be to ensure that the pension fund giving the airport awards, in a category judged by Green Paper’s supportive approach access to private finance, while local Airlines UK), both sets of owners to regional airport growth is now authority ownership ensures “an should have much to celebrate this entrenched in Government thinking. alignment of interest”, with the local July when Birmingham will mark 80 councils sharing directly in the fruits years since the first flights took off Closer to home, Barton is also very of the airport’s success. from the airport.  positive about local government. Birmingham Airport is jointly owned With the airport recently named by seven West Midlands Metropolitan “best UK airport with more than Boroughs and a large Canadian 10 million passengers” (at the AOA pension fund. He describes it “a symbiotic relationship”, with the

THE AIRPORT OPERATOR SPRING 2019 16 UK AIRPORTS SEEK PUBLIC SUPPORT FOR AMBITIOUS GROWTH PLANS

Eight of the UK’s top 20 airports have outlined ambitious master plans for expansion between now and the 2030’s.

eading the pack is the country’s last summer. The airport’s project in December and work has started second largest airport, Gatwick, team is currently reviewing responses on a £225 million rail passenger Lwhose consultation on its 2018 and expects to launch a further transit service to replace the existing draft master plan closed in January, statutory consultation on a preferred shuttle bus service. When the new claiming support for its growth plans scheme by the middle of this year. 2.1-kilometre rail-airport link opens in from three quarters of residents 2021 it will cut the station to terminal surveyed in Sussex, Surrey and Kent Secretary of State for Transport, Chris journey time to just three minutes and from 29 business organisations, Grayling, officially opened Luton’s and the overall journey time to central representing over 25,000 regional newly-upgraded terminal building London to under 30 minutes. companies.

The 15-year plan considers how Gatwick could grow by the early 2030’s to accommodate 70 million passengers a year (compared to 46.1 million in 2018) by using new technology to maximise the airport’s main runway and potentially bringing its standby runway into routine use for departing flights. The airport will be publishing a consultation summary report and its final master plan later this year.

Elsewhere in the South East, Luton has set out a 30-year “vision for sustainable growth” for the period Secretary of State for Transport, Chris Grayling, 2020 to 2050, forecasting that annual passenger numbers could more than officially opened Luton’s newly-upgraded terminal double from the current 16.6 million building in December and work has started on a to 38 million. The vision document from airport owner, Luton Council, £225 million rail passenger transit service to replace formed the basis for a draft master plan on which a consultation was held the existing shuttle bus service.

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Birmingham set out how it plans to Cardiff’s draft master plan explains the airport’s “easy, friendly, relaxed” achieve its ambition of becoming how the airport will grow from its passenger experience reputation, “one of Europe’s leading regional current 1.5 million passengers per which helped it to top the UK league airports” in its 2018 draft master plan, year to three million and beyond in table for customer service at the end with a consultation that closed at the period to 2040. A new terminal of 2018 and saw it named by Which? the end of January, leading to a final building will be key to achieving as the UK’s best small airport.  master plan to be published in early the airport’s aspiration to be “an summer this year. It expects to see outstanding capital city airport annual passenger numbers grow by connecting Wales to the world 40% from the current 8.6 million to 18 and the world to Wales”, while million by 2033, with a focus on long- delivering “an exceptional customer Cardiff’s draft master haul routes to high growth economies experience”. plan explains how the such as India and China. A £500 million 15-year investment plan will Finally, Doncaster Sheffield’s draft airport will grow from help it to deliver its growth strategy. master plan, covering the period up its current 1.5 million to 2037, sets out plans for a major Bristol’s draft master plan, expected terminal enhancement and forecasts passengers per year to soon, will outline a vision for the growth in annual passenger numbers three million and beyond period between now and 2050. It from 1.3 million today to up to 4.7 foresees passenger numbers growing million by 2037. A key goal will be in the period to 2040. from the current 8.6 million a year to to deliver growth while retaining up to 20 million by the mid-2040’s. Meanwhile, the airport has submitted a planning application seeking approval for development to handle up to 12 million passengers a year by 2026 – Bristol’s annual passenger numbers are currently capped at 10 million.

Newcastle’s master plan sets out it plans for the period up to its centenary year, 2035, when it expects to see passenger numbers grow from over 5 million a year to up to 9.4 million. With a view to ensuring that it will be able to secure more long- haul air routes in the future, the plan provides for the safeguarding of the eastern end of the current runway to enable the construction of a 700-metre runway extension, should that prove necessary.

Following a consultation on its draft master plan at the end of last year, Southampton hopes to submit a planning application this year for a 170-metre extension to the northern end of its runway. That would mean that existing aircraft could fly further, bringing Mediterranean destinations such as Madrid and Rome, within reach, and, for the first time, allow larger narrow-bodied aircraft to use the airport without weight restrictions. Passenger numbers could climb from the current two million to five million by 2037.

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AOA ANNUAL AWARDS SHOWCASE UK SUCCESS STORIES

our English airports were Carlisle Lake District was the that the aviation industry recognises named Best Airport in their winner in the Best General Aviation what has been achieved and the Fcategory at the AOA’s annual category, selected by the Aircraft important role that our airport plays awards ceremony, with Cardiff Owners and Pilots Association. both regionally and nationally. I am picking up the award for Best very positive about our future. We Airport campaign in UK Airports At Birmingham, Simon Richards, will play an increasingly important Safety Week. then the airport’s acting Managing role in shaping the East Midlands Director, said: “We are delighted economy, creating new jobs and The awards were presented on 29 to be presented with this accolade, connecting people and products to October at a dinner in London’s beating off stiff competition from other parts of the world”. County Hall hosted by The other major UK airports in our Independent’s Senior Travel Editor, category. Credit must go to our Simon Calder. employees and partner companies for the huge amount of hard work The three winners in the Best that has gone into improving our “Aviation is a Airport category, selected by processes and customer experience Airlines UK, were Birmingham (Best over the last year”. UK success story Airport over 10 million passengers), and our vibrant East Midlands (Best Airport, 3 to For East Midlands the award came in 10 million passengers) and London a year when records were broken for and innovative Southend (Best Airport, under 3 the volume and value of the cargo million passengers). that it handles. Managing Director, work is globally Karen Smart, said: “I am delighted leading.” WWW.AOA.ORG.UK 19

London Southend showcase their AOA award on the airport’s website, along with the fact that they have “The AOA annual awards been rated best airport in London by the Which? airport passenger showcased just a sample of that survey for the last six years. CEO, Glyn Jones, said the awards were a best-in-kind work, including testament to all the hard work that the airport team had put in and around improving efficiency, recognition of a raft of new routes and exceptional customer service. reducing the impact of aviation

Cardiff’s safety award was based on the environment and on partnership with airlines, police, NATs and St John’s Ambulance. delivering an ever-improving CEO, Deb Barber, said: “We are so proud to have won this award. passenger experience”. It recognises Cardiff Airport’s commitment to safety and security Conference Exhibition Stand, our vibrant and innovative work is as our number one priority. UK Vanderlande for Best Innovator, the globally leading. The AOA annual Airports Safety Week provides Met Office for Best Business Partner, awards showcased just a sample a fantastic opportunity for staff, Wilson James for Best Environmental of that best-in-kind work, including passengers and the community to Initiative and Rohde & Schwarz for around improving efficiency, reducing engage with the airport and promote Best Solution Provider. the impact of aviation on the our strong safety culture”. environment and delivering an ever- Congratulating all the winners, AOA improving passenger experience”.  Five leading suppliers to UK airports Chief Executive, Karen Dee, said: also picked up awards. Dallmeier “Aviation is a UK success story and won the award for Best AOA Annual

THE AIRPORT OPERATOR SPRING 2019 20 LEONARDO HIGHLIGHTS CAPABILITIES OF UK-DESIGNED COUNTER-DRONE SYSTEM

Falcon Shield system detects, tracks, identifies and defeats drones.

talian-headquartered high-tech on a visit to the company’s Basildon giant, Leonardo, is launching a new plant, how the different components Imarketing campaign to promote of the system work together to Falcon Shield, its state-of-the-art counter drone attacks, emphasising counter-drone system, to UK airports, that Falcon Shield can be tailored to following the recent drone attacks meet the requirements of airports of which disrupted flight operations. any size.

As was widely reported at the The company, an AOA corporate time, the RAF-tested system was partner, is one of the biggest deployed to ensure the safety of suppliers of defence equipment flights following drone sightings. to the Ministry of Defence and the largest Italian inward investor in Now the company is keen to the UK. Its operations in Basildon explain to other UK airports how (formerly Marconi) and Southampton its system, based on world-beating have been established since the technology designed, developed 1950’s. Basildon produced the UK’s and manufactured at Basildon and first military standard production Southampton, could help them to thermal imager and Southampton is detect, track, identify and defeat a centre of excellence for infra-red malicious or dangerous drone detectors. incursions. Paul Burt, The Falcon Shield Counter- Leonardo Vice President Leonardo Vice President of Sales, Unmanned Air Vehicle system, of Sales Paul Burt, showed Airport Operator launched in 2015, brings together

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Falcon Shield can be tailored to meet the requirements of airports of any size.

cutting- edge technology designed thermal imaging tracker, designed with improvised explosive devices and developed in the UK by and manufactured in Basildon and of the kind frequently used in Iraq Leonardo with other world-leading Southampton, whose cameras – where, in a former role during technology to offer airports a deliver exceptionally high-quality the Iraq war, Burt was RAF base seamless and user-friendly counter- images at any time of the day or commander in Basra. drone package. night. The cameras enable airport operators to track drone incursions Burt, now Leonardo’s Vice President The detect element of the system and help to identify the type of Sales & Marketing, Land & Naval includes both active and passive drone involved. Defence Electronics, stresses that components. The active surveillance the company is keen to offer tailored component is a radar system The defeat element of Falcon solutions to airports of all sizes comparable to systems used daily Shield is graphically described and that the price of buying and by air traffic controllers. The passive by Burt as “an electronic sniper operating the system will reflect this. component, drone signal monitoring, rifle”, which uses battle-proven Recognising the cost constraints involves listening to radio frequency technology to jam a drone’s faced by airports, he says that in emissions from the drone and electronic signals. Crucially, from normal circumstances the Falcon drone controller and can help law an airport’s perspective, the “rifle” Shield system can be incorporated enforcement agencies to identify the is precisely-targeted to disable the into routine activities and effectively source of an incursion. drone without interfering with the operated by one individual, a “sentry electronic systems that are vital to on watch” for the airport, whose At the heart of the track and identify the safety of aircraft and airfields. primary responsibilities will lie elements is Leonardo’s Nerio The technology was originally elsewhere.  ultra- long-range high definition developed for the military to deal

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Alberto Martin, CEO, Luton Airport

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CONVINCING PEOPLE OF THE BENEFITS OF TRAVELLING THROUGH A TRANSFORMED LUTON AIRPORT

Alberto Martin has come a long way from the days when he ran the smallest airport in the Canary Islands with just two destinations - but the new CEO of London Luton Airport says that his experience as Managing Director of tiny El Hierro Airport will stand him in good stead now that he runs the UK’s fifth busiest airport.

or a start it made him aware Fuerteventura and Gran Canaria with responsibility for delivering its of the benefits that an airport airports gave him of the workings £160 million terminal transformation Fprovides for its surrounding of Spain’s airport operator, Aena, project, which was officially opened community and today, as CEO of an which also operates Luton Airport, by Transport Secretary, Chris airport owned by the local council, in partnership with Australia’s Grayling, four days before Martin Martin emphasises that Luton AMP Capital, under a concession stepped up to his new role. Grayling Airport is proud to be part of its local agreement with Luton Borough said that the investment “firmly community and always looking for Council. Martin has spent a total of puts passengers at the heart of ways to ensure that it “gives back” to 20 years working for Aena. development and will improve the that community. experience of those using the airport Before becoming Luton’s CEO last for business or holidays”. Then there is the knowledge that December, he was the airport’s his time at El Hierro and later at Planning and Investment Director, The terminal upgrade was the biggest

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redevelopment in the airport’s the worst airport in the UK a distant The airport’s reputation looks set to 80-year history and focused on memory. improve further in two years’ time making passengers’ journeys easier, when building work, which began last quicker and more enjoyable, with The early signs are encouraging, year, is scheduled to be completed 48 new shops (including Chanel) with some customers reporting that on a new £225 million light rail link. and restaurants, 3,000 new seats, they have been pleasantly surprised That will replace an existing shuttle a new boarding pier, an expanded with what they can now expect bus service and connect the terminal security search area and a new dual at the airport. More than 73% of to Luton Airport Parkway station carriageway, bus interchange and passengers say that they are happy in just three minutes. It will cut the multi-storey car park. with their experience at the airport total journey time from the airport and 82% express satisfaction with to London’s St Pancras station to Martin said he was really proud of their experience at security – where under 30 minutes and Martin hopes what his team had achieved and a CAA reports say that Luton has a to see the frequency of fast trains big part of his new job would be perceived security waiting time of to St Pancras increased to four an increasing public awareness of the just five minutes. hour. Meanwhile, this year will see transformation of Luton, to convince more and more of the travelling public to fly from the airport. He is convinced that a combination of Last year Luton had 16.6 million passengers, the physical improvements to the airport and a relentless focus on the which was a 5% increase on the previous quality of the passenger experience year. The airport introduced 36 new routes will transform Luton’s reputation and make Which? passenger satisfaction last year, with airlines now flying to 150 surveys which once rated Luton as destinations in 40 countries.

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the extension of the Oyster and capacity in the South East of England. Asked if anything had surprised contactless card system to train Competition with other airports in him about the CEO role at Luton, services between London and the the South East will be complemented Martin says his early weeks had been airport. by collaboration with them to ensure much as he had expected, including harmonised improvements in the use a substantial rise in the number of Last year Luton had 16.6 million of the region’s airspace. e-mails that he receives each day and passengers, which was a 5% increase a busy daily agenda. The scale of the on the previous year. The airport Martin acknowledges that dealing operation at Luton is dramatically introduced 36 new routes last with noise issues will continue to be different to his first job at El Hierro, year, with airlines now flying to 150 “an unavoidable part of operating he says, but the role remains the destinations in 40 countries. This a busy and ever-growing airport”. same: protecting the interests of year in January alone Luton had 1.1 He promises that he will continue the shareholders by focusing on million passengers, a 13% increase on to focus on working with the local delivering the targets that are most January 2018. Martin expects growth community to minimise the noise relevant to the airport’s passenger to continue in 2019, despite Brexit- impacts of growth and notes that and airline customers and to its local related uncertainty, though probably Luton already has some of the most community.  not at the same rate as earlier. There stringent noise control measures will be a new route to Finland and, of any UK airport. He says that the while nothing seems to be imminent, number of complaints about noise Martin doesn’t rule out the possibility fell by 45% in the third quarter of last of new long-haul routes. He says year. that continuing growth will help to support a stronger local economy and deliver much-needed additional

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CHRIS GRAYLING’S MESSAGE TO UK AIRPORTS: “WHEN YOU SUCCEED, SO DOES THE UK”

THIS year the UK will celebrate the centenary of a remarkable moment in aviation history – the start of the world’s first daily, international, commercial air service.

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n August 1919, a tiny de Havilland investment they provide, spread three decades and beyond. But to biplane carried a modest cargo, these benefits across the country. earn the right to grow, communities Iconsisting of a single passenger, must be supported, passenger a supply of Devonshire cream and However, to maintain our place in voices heard, and the environment some grouse, on a two-hour flight such a fiercely competitive global protected. between Hounslow Heath and Paris. sector we cannot take the UK’s future success for granted. We must The consultation contains a wide It was a journey that marked the continue to help airlines and airports array of innovative proposals beginning of modern air travel, prepare for the big challenges they exploring how we can achieve these forging the vital international face in the coming decades. That is goals. That might be through a connections that our country why last June, we made important Passenger Charter to improve the required to flourish. progress towards providing greater experience of those with disabilities, capacity in the South East - with or by considering how airports Today AOA members play a more Parliament’s vote for the Airports can make best use of their existing important role than ever in linking National Policy Statement providing runways. the UK with vibrant economies an important step towards creating a across the globe, while strengthening third runway at Heathrow. Aviation 2050 also tackles the our oldest international friendships. crucial question of how we can A record breaking 284 million And to ensure a thriving future for take full advantage of our skies by passengers passed through our the industry we must keep asking modernising use of our airspace to airports in 2017 – while £85 billion of fundamental questions. How can make flights quicker, quieter and air freight shipped around the world we enable aviation to grow but cleaner. Most of this infrastructure from the UK. live up to its responsibilities to the hasn’t been updated since the 1950s environment and communities? How and, without action, one in three And with demand forecast to surge can we best harness technology flights will be delayed by half an further, this is an industry that is and ensure a diverse and motivated hour or more by 2030. Managing not standing still. I’ve been deeply workforce? How can we meet the our airspace with better technology impressed by the sector’s ambition needs of passengers, including those will provide more capacity and to seize new opportunities. with disabilities? reduce delays. In addition, airspace modernisation will help airports In the last 12 months alone we’ve In December the Department for minimise their environmental impact seen a host of new routes launched Transport made a major advance by reducing carbon and noise, and from UK airports, for instance direct towards finding a solution to there will be less of a need for plane flights between Manchester and these issues with the launch of our stacking. Mumbai. And many other airports Aviation Strategy consultation. This have reported soaring traveller document, named Aviation 2050, The consultation underlines the numbers, such as Edinburgh, which lays out a comprehensive plan for Government and the Civil Aviation served 14 million passengers in 2018 sustainable growth to ensure the Authority’s belief that airspace - an all time high. industry’s success over the next modernisation is necessary and highlights our commitment towards AOA members are also showing providing leadership. great commitment to growth and improving the passenger experience. “Aviation 2050 It goes without saying, however, that collaboration between airports, In August I opened phase one of also tackles the particularly in the busy South Leeds Bradford’s departure lounge East, will be key. So, I urge airports redevelopment, while Luton has crucial question of and the wider aviation industry recently unveiled a new terminal to come together to deliver the building, and Birmingham has how we can take benefits of modernisation through announced a £500 million expansion full advantage a coordinated programme. I know plan to boost capacity and AOA members are also playing passenger facilities. of our skies by their part in this process, as well as providing a valuable contribution to All these projects will of course aid modernising use Aviation 2050 as a whole. the entire UK. A thriving aviation sector is real evidence of economic of our airspace While Aviation 2050 prepares the confidence, growing tourism, to make flights sector for many of the issues that will increased trade and business emerge over the coming decades investment. Our regional airports quicker, quieter – I am conscious that airports have and the connections, jobs and and cleaner.” faced some new challenges in recent THE AIRPORT OPERATOR SPRING 2019 28

months. The recent disruption at countries, including the US and Gatwick highlighted how we must Canada – ensuring flights to those “this Government work together to tackle the threat of countries will continue after March malicious drone use. 29. recognises the

In the aftermath of these utterly And the EU has provisionally agreed enormous value of irresponsible and illegal incidents, legislation that will ensure flights my Department held a number of to and from the EU will continue in airports and the very constructive meetings with the event of no deal so passengers wider aviation AOA members which have helped us can continue to book flights with take clear action as a government. confidence. sector to our country This month we have further increased our restriction on drone The UK will reciprocate by providing and economy. When use to cover the aerodrome traffic equivalent rights to airlines from zone with additional extensions at those European States enabling you succeed, so does runway ends. A step that builds on flights to carry on in any scenario. the UK. So, let’s the Government’s changes to the law last year which made it illegal But regardless of the outcome of continue to work in to fly a drone above 400 feet and negotiations, my Department is within a kilometre of an airport. seeking post Brexit arrangements partnership, and look that maximise operational and We have also passed legislation commercial flexibility for airlines and forward to the future that means that from November airports. with optimism.” all operators of drones, weighing between 250 grams and 20 I greatly value our work with kilogrammes, must register and AOA members on these issues. pilots complete a competency test. It has been incredibly beneficial Our forthcoming Drones Bill will also understanding your positions set out new measures, including and concerns. And you can rest giving police drone misuse stop and assured that on this matter – as on search powers. others facing AOA members - my Department is listening to your But as well as passing laws voice. it’s crucial that we continue to educate the public about the safe That’s because this Government use of drones. I’m very grateful recognises the enormous value of to AOA members for their work airports and the wider aviation sector on promoting the Civil Aviation to our country and economy. When Authority’s Drone Code to you succeed, so does the UK. So, highlight the rules to the public. let’s continue to work in partnership, The Government has also recently and look forward to the future with announced a partnership with optimism.  retailer Jessops which will further raise awareness of the rules among Chris Grayling, Secretary of State customers. for Transport

We are taking a similar collaborative approach towards EU withdrawal.

The Government is determined to leave the EU with a deal. The UK and the EU have a mutual interest in maintaining closely integrated aviation markets with liberal market access – to the benefit of businesses and customers alike.

As I am sure AOA members are aware, we have agreed new bilateral flight arrangements with 11 third

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NEW MANAGING DIRECTOR SEES “GREEN SHOOTS” AFTER THREE TOUGH YEARS

Aberdeen Airport’s Managing Director, Steve Szalay, who started in the role last November, is predicting that 2019 will be a year of resurgence for the airport which was badly hit by the oil and gas industry slump in the last three years.

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Steve Szalay, CEO, Aberdeen Airport Managing Director

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s oil prices fell to $30 a barrel, Aberdeen’s passenger Anumbers, which peaked at 3.7 million in 2014, fell to 3.1 million in 2017 and 2018. Now, with oil prices back up to $62 a barrel, Szalay suggests that the airport, which is the main heliport for the Scottish offshore oil industry, might hit 3.2 million passengers this year, despite last month’s axing of an EasyJet route to London Gatwick Airport.

His optimism is based not just on an improving oil market, but also on a combination of already announced capacity increases by existing airlines, the opening of a new motorway expanding the airport’s catchment area and this summer’s opening of ’s state-of-the- art exhibition and conference centre “100 metres from the end of the runway”.

whole of the concourse and Szalay Szalay says that a key part of his job will says that “it will just look and feel like a new airport. It is going to be be to reduce the airport’s reliance on the phenomenal”. oil and gas industry, so that: “when the He is also keen to improve the Aberdeen oil and gas industry catches a airport experience for people arriving at the airport from the oil cold, the airport doesn’t catch pneumonia”. rigs, who may have to wait several hours landside for a connecting Several of the airlines already have seen their journey times cut commercial flight. He is exploring operating out of Aberdeen have from 45 to 12 minutes. new arrangements for early bag announced capacity increases for the drops that could enable these summer, led by KLM, with an extra Perhaps the most important piece passengers to take advantage of 20,000 seats adding 10% to capacity of good news will be this summer’s all the airport’s airside facilities, on its route to Amsterdam. Following opening of the £333 million including the new Northern Lights the collapse of Flybmi last month, exhibition and conference centre, lounge. has begun operating on The Event Complex Aberdeen. One three former Flybmi routes from the of its first events in early September Szalay says that a key part of his airport to Bristol, Oslo and Esbjerg. will be the Offshore Europe 2019 job will be to reduce the airport’s There is also now competition on conference, which is set to attract reliance on the oil and gas industry, the Esbjerg route, with Danish Air over 36,000 attendees. Summer so that: “when the Aberdeen Transport adding the route to its 2020 is the scheduled completion oil and gas industry catches a schedules. date for a £350 million project to cold, the airport doesn’t catch expand Aberdeen harbour, which pneumonia”. He will seek to do this Szalay expresses confidence too that will enable large cruise ships to visit be attracting more routes to holiday the recent opening of Aberdeen’s Aberdeen for the first time. destinations such as Malaga and new western bypass will be a game- Palma de Mallorca. To do that he changer for the airport, as it opens a Meanwhile, the airport itself aims to bring potential new airline bigger catchment area to the north is in the third and final phase customers up to Aberdeen to see and south of the airport, including of its comprehensive terminal for themselves what he describes as Dundee, which is now just an hour transformation programme, on the “tangible excitement that is felt away. The new bypass is also good time and on budget. April will see around our city as we herald a bold news for many airport staff, who the opening of new shops and the new chapter and a bright future”. 

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Mark Johnston, ’s Managing Director

GLASGOW AIRPORT CONTRIBUTES £1.44 BILLION TO SCOTLAND’S ECONOMY AND SUPPORTS OVER 30,000 JOBS

A new economic impact study by economists York Aviation has underlined the scale of Glasgow Airport’s contribution to the economy and outlined the prospects for an even greater contribution by 2040. WWW.AOA.ORG.UK 33

he study shows that the airport, which welcomed 9.7 Tmillion passengers last year, “The findings are very encouraging and generates more than £1.44 billion in gross value added annually and supports more than 30,000 jobs show that when Glasgow Airport succeeds across Scotland. It also confirms the airport’s key role as a gateway for Scotland shares the benefit. We want to global trade, with Glasgow handling more than £3.5 billion in goods in continue to grow in a sustainable and 2017. responsible manner.” York Aviation say that if Glasgow Airport continues to grow as responsible manner. We can’t do Airport’s 2040 Master Plan, forecast in its Master Plan it would this on our own and it is imperative which will be published for public contribute £2.54 billion, support over that through the ongoing support consultation later this year. Mark Johnston, 43,000 jobs and welcome 17 million of our city and national partners we Glasgow Airport’s passengers annually by 2040. ensure Glasgow Airport continues With 30 airlines serving 120 Managing Director to thrive and deliver for Scotland. destinations worldwide, including Mark Johnston, Glasgow Airport’s To do this we also need to address Canada, the US, the Caribbean, Managing Director, said: “The the current constraints such as Europe and the Gulf, Glasgow is findings are very encouraging motorway congestion and delivering Scotland’s main long-haul airport and show that when Glasgow the planned rail link”. and Scotland’s largest charter Airport succeeds Scotland shares hub and serves more Scottish the benefit. We want to continue The York Aviation study has been destinations than any other to grow in a sustainable and produced to inform Glasgow airport. 

GLASGOW AIRPORT - GLASGOW AIRPORT - DELIVERINGGLASGOW HUGE AIRPORT ECONOMIC - DELIVERING HUGE ECONOMIC VALUEDELIVERING FOR SCOTLAND HUGE ECONOMIC VALUEVALUE FOR FOR SCOTLAND SCOTLAND TODAY 2040 TODAYTODAY 20402040

£1.44bn Supports Strong 9.7m £2.54bn £1.44bn overSupports connectivityStrong passengers9.7m £2.54bn GVA annually£1.44bn 30,000 overjobsSupports toconnectivity over Strong passengers9.7m GVA annually£2.54bn GVA annually 30,000over jobs 120 routesconnectivityto over passengers GVA annually GVA annually 30,000 jobs 120 routesto over GVA annually 120 routes

A gateway for over Exported over £1.7bn More than Supports Increased 17m £3.5bnA gatewayin imports for and over - moreExported than any over other £1.7bn 10 0 companiesMore than overSupports connectivityIncreased passengers17m exports£3.5bn outsideA gateway in of imports the EU* for and over Scottish- moreExported airport* than anyover other £1.7bn based10 0on companies Moresite than 43,000 overjobsSupportsworldwide connectivityIncreased with passengers17m exports£3.5bn outside in of imports the EU* and Scottish- more thanairport* any other based10 0 on companies site 43,000over jobsgrowingworldwide networkconnectivity with passengers exports outside of the EU* Scottish airport* based on site 43,000 jobsgrowingworldwide network with *2017 figures derived from HMRC statistics growing network *2017 figures derived from HMRC statistics *2017 figures derived from HMRC statistics

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WORLD-LEADING AIRPORT SUPPLIERS JOIN AOA

The AOA has added eight new members with expertise in aviation security, airport design, recruitment and training, air traffic management, engineering and passenger information to its growing list of members.

GOLD MEMBERS:

Certis is a world leader in aviation security services, helping to keep passengers and aviation safe and helping airports to provide a first-class passenger experience. Services include access control checks, pre-boarding passenger screening and check-in baggage screening. The company provides over 3,000 armed and unarmed security officers at Singapore’s Changi Airport and lists Sydney, Canberra and Hamad International Airport, Qatar among its airport clients.

Proactive, whose vision is “making passengers smile – everywhere, every day”, recruits and trains people for some of the busiest transport companies in the UK. Working in partnership with companies like Heathrow Express, it collaborates to deliver “an exceptional passenger experience”.

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SILVER MEMBERS:

Arup has over 50 years of experience in the physical design of airport structures from control towers to passenger terminals and cargo and maintenance facilities. It describes itself as “a trusted partner to many of the world’s leading and emerging airports – advising on investment and planning, design and implementation, as well as operational and efficiency improvement”. Arup says that it designs development programmes “where physical design is precisely aligned to passenger behaviour and changing market needs”. Its UK clients have included Birmingham, Edinburgh, Gatwick, Heathrow and Manchester.

EB Airside provides employers of airside staff with security screening for passes intended for individuals working in any area after passing through customs. The Winchester-based company says it has over 20 years’ experience in the area and can offer a service which is comprehensive, accurate and speedy. It says that airside employers need passes as quickly as possible with the peace of mind that the screening process is as through as possible.

HRGO recruitment are specialist recruitment consultants with branches in Cardiff, Crawley, Heathrow, Luton and Stockport and with 10 years’ experience in recruiting for airport and aviation roles across UK airports – including passenger service agents, ramp agents, customer service agents, flight dispatchers and aircraft de-icers. It has recruited for roles at Birmingham, Cardiff, Gatwick, Heathrow, Luton, Manchester and Stansted airports.

Think Research is an independent air traffic management and airports consultancy which works with airports, ATM service and systems providers and aircraft manufacturers to deliver performance improvement. It says that it has helped to deliver extra capacity to the world’s busiest airports. As well as increasing runway throughput, it says that it can help airports to optimise airspace, implement new ATM systems and reduce ATM costs.

ASSOCIATE MEMBERS:

CHS Engineering has been providing independent services to airports around the world since 1985, with a focus on cost-saving solutions and return on investment. The company has developed a range of test baggage for use in airport baggage handling systems, specialist hold baggage screening and explosive detection system trials. It also delivers electrical health and safety audits for airport retail units. CHS Engineering’s wide range of UK airport clients have included Gatwick, Heathrow, London City, Newcastle, Southampton, Southend and Stansted.

R2P provides products, technology and solutions for integrated network audio and emergency communication systems at airports. Its passenger information systems encompass public address and digital voice announcement features with built-in integration into many of the leading Flight Information Displays Systems. It provides emergency help point and emergency warning and intercommunication features, as well as systems for mobile communication and staff security.

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UK AIRPORTS NEED TO SECURE THE TRUST OF THEIR LOCAL COMMUNITIES SAYS ICCAN CHIEF

The UK’s airports will need to work with their local communities as they develop their growth plans, according to Robert Light, the Head Commissioner of the new Independent Commission on Civil Aviation Noise (ICCAN).

sked by Airport Operator to would be looking at what levers After nearly fourth months in the summarise his key messages could be used to “drive noise down”. role and early discussions with Afor those who run the UK’s He suggested that one question to community groups and airports, he airports, he said: “We recognise consider would be “how can we get said: “My strong first impression is that you are expecting to grow. If the quietest aircraft flying into UK that trust is the biggest problem you want to grow, you can’t do it airports?” and that mostly it isn’t there. In in the way you have done it in the past. You need to take communities with you and start doing it with communities, not to them. Noise is “If you want to grow, you can’t do it in the way an issue that is going to get bigger. If you don’t engage effectively with you have done it in the past. You need to take your communities then it will stop or communities with you and start doing it with inhibit your growth plans”. communities, not to them. Noise is an issue that is Light said his view was that “at the moment the pace of airport growth going to get bigger. If you don’t engage effectively is outstripping the benefits to the with your communities then it will stop or inhibit community” and the Commission your growth plans”.

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many areas it is broken. If you can’t should actually see benefits in their affected airport, from the biggest to get a baseline of trust, you can’t community”. Asked what he meant the smallest. communicate on the key issues and by benefits, he said that would even some simple stuff gets difficult. depend on local circumstances, but Light said that the Commission When people talk there is not a lot of it was more than just home insulation would aim to be challenging towards dialogue. I see a lot of speaking by schemes. One example he gave was all its stakeholders, including the different sides, but I don’t see a lot of that airports might invest in local Department for Transport and discussion on how to resolve issues”. traffic infrastructure. the Civil Aviation Authority, and He said he had observed that in would be fierce in defending it some areas “relationships are a little Another area of focus for the future independence. Given its small size bit tired” and people were “weary will be airspace change. Light and limited powers, the Commission after being in conflict over a long said that it would be important would seek to effect change by time. There is evidence that some of to ensure that that the airspace “using the power of influence. We the relationships are possibly broken change process includes a very clear are not going to rush into this. We and that trust is low”. noise agenda. He saw it as a huge will have a careful look over the next opportunity, for example, to reduce two years at how regulation can Light said that it would be a real the numbers of aircraft stacking near be used to drive the outcomes that challenge to rebuild that trust and airports. However, he acknowledged society wants to see”. would mean compromise on all sides. that the issues were very complex, He hoped that the Commission could particularly in the South East, where Reflecting on the Commission’s early play a role in “bringing people out it would be important to develop a days, he said that good progress from the barricades” and said that comprehensive plan involving every was being made in recruiting both his experience as a councillor and as Commissioners and staff and a Board member of the Consumer the Commission was considering Council for Water had given him whether to appoint an expert panel “an understanding of what good to advise on technical issues. It community engagement looks like. would ensure that it engages with Where there is common ground The Department airports and community groups from between the parties, if you can build across England, Scotland, Wales and on that you can start to deal with for Transport’s Northern Ireland. The Commission some of the difficult issues”. would be considering a broad range Aviation Strategy of issues. These would include best He has already attended one of would support practice guidelines for community ’s engagement engagement, the balance between meetings, being held as part of a growth at UK national and local decision-making consultation on its plans for a new on airport growth, the impact on runway. He has also spoken at a airports on long-term health of aviation noise, meeting of the airport’s Community technological innovation and the Engagement Board Question condition that need for aviation noise data that Time, which has been “set up to could be understood by everyone.  increase community and stakeholder communities were participation in Heathrow’s planning and decision-making processes”. He able to “share said that the engagement meeting had been well set up, with plenty of the benefits of information and plenty of informed people present with time to engage. aviation growth. He was certain that Heathrow was trying to engage with people and is If communities are clear that all airports must listen to their communities when considering going to take the airspace changes. pain of more, then Light suggested that the Department for Transport’s Aviation Strategy they should actually would support growth at UK airports on condition that communities were see benefits in their able to “share the benefits of aviation growth. If communities are going community”. to take the pain of more, then they

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FACING THE FUTURE TOGETHER

Richard Moriarty, Chief Executive, UK Civil Aviation Authority

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he strength of the UK’s aviation industry lies in its diversity. “Our intention as the regulator is to work with the TAs well as having the busiest industry, not against it, to understand and navigate airport and the second biggest airline - by passenger numbers - these challenges with the aim of ultimately serving in Europe, we also have some of the best facilities in the world for the interests of passengers. Challenges also bring business jets. We have over 120 opportunities and aviation is an industry that has general aviation airfields and more than 100 flight training schools - as innovated and prospered over the years despite being well as world-leading aerospace buffeted by external events.” research and development institutions. It has been my privilege to see, first hand, some of this work with the industry, not against at the heart of everything we diversity during my first ten months it, to understand and navigate these do. Commercial air transport is a in the role as Chief Executive of the challenges with the aim of ultimately complex industry but with a simple UK Civil Aviation Authority. serving the interests of passengers. goal: to get more passengers Challenges also bring opportunities from A to B in a commercially and There can be no doubt that the and aviation is an industry that has environmentally sustainable way, global aviation industry faces some innovated and prospered over the while meeting their expectations for challenging times, economically, years despite being buffeted by service, and upholding their rights environmentally and technologically, external events. when things occasionally go wrong. as well as some geo-political issues. Above all else, however, it is about Our intention as the regulator is to It is vital we place the passenger making sure aviation operations have a very high level of safety and security and a culture that pushes for continuous enhancement of safety and security management.

So, as you face the future challenges and opportunities, four themes from the Civil Aviation Authority’s strategy are relevant to supporting your industry: enhancing risk-based safety management; modernising aviation infrastructure capacity; upholding passenger rights; and embracing innovation and new technologies.

Enhancing safety We must all be tireless in seeking out how we enhance risk-based safety regulation. The public tends to take safety for granted, because we, and many professionals working in the industry, do not. We can never be complacent. The ability for competitors to work together for the common good, for example, has been a shining example for other safety critical sectors. We are now raising our safety collaboration up to the next level through performance- based regulation. Overseeing organisations’ compliance with regulations is no longer enough; together with industry, we strive to manage future risks by looking at safety systems, management

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work over the last few years to better assist passengers with both “We cannot ignore Brexit. Our position physical and hidden disabilities, introducing innovative procedures to has always been clear: aviation and air improve the passenger experience. travel are, by definition, international We also insist that passengers have recourse to an efficient complaints businesses. The UK is one of the leading process to address any concerns they have about their journey, and global aviation players and London is one are working hard to make this the reality. The majority of UK airports the best-connected cities in the world.” and airlines are now signed up to the alternative dispute resolution process which sets out to deal with and culture. We cannot eliminate and commercially financeable complaints fairly and independently, all risks, but we can contain those way. Just before Christmas we and we are encouraging all those risks through a proactive and also published our new airspace that haven’t signed up to do so. collaborative approach. modernisation strategy to set the Passengers are more aware than direction for restructuring this vital ever of their legal rights, and Modernising infrastructure national resource. For too long fully expect value for money for To cope with the growing demand people have focused on physical goods and services they purchase, for air travel, capacity needs to infrastructure on the ground; but including air travel. The aviation increase, both on the ground and in reform of the invisible infrastructure industry must demonstrate best- the air. We support an increase in in the sky cannot be ignored and practice when it comes to upholding the UK’s aviation capacity to meet we are pleased the Government has the rights of its passengers. future consumer demand, provided made it a priority for its Aviation that it meets planning conditions Strategy. Embracing new technology and takes into account needs of local The development of new airborne communities. We are developing Upholding passenger rights technology, such as unmanned an economic regulatory framework We are committed to ensuring aircraft systems (drones), vertical for Heathrow expansion which aims access to air travel for all. Many UK take-off and landing air taxis, flying to ensure this nationally significant airports have done some incredible project is delivered in an affordable

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cars and space planes present major Passengers have benefitted regulatory challenges. We have enormously from the choice that “We also want already established a new regulation has resulted from the liberalisation team for drones and later this year of aviation in Europe. Brexit should to continue to be we will open a new registration not, in our, view, be used as an scheme for drone users. Although opportunity to restrict competition. influential beyond new technologies offer potential benefits; we are mindful that there We also want to continue to be our borders in are risks as we have seen with the influential beyond our borders in recent drone sightings at various ensuring safety of our citizens. The ensuring safety of airports in the last few months. Once Government and the Civil Aviation again, we must work together to Authority have been clear that our citizens. ensure these risks are identified and our preference is to remain part managed appropriately. of the European Aviation Safety The Government Agency. As a responsible technical On a more immediate level, we regulator, we continue to undertake and the Civil cannot ignore Brexit. Our position the preparatory work for a range of has always been clear: aviation potential outcomes of the EU exit Aviation Authority and air travel are, by definition, negotiations, including the possibility international businesses. The UK is of the UK leaving the EU without a have been clear that one of the leading global aviation deal. players and London is one the best- our preference is to connected cities in the world. We I have no doubt that the UK’s therefore want to see an outcome commercial aviation sector will remain part of the that continues to allow aviation continue to thrive in the years ahead. and travel to flourish, which means The journey ahead will be far easier if European Aviation the existence of a liberal and open we make it together with the shared market for businesses to trade aim of putting passengers at the Safety Agency.” within. heart of what we do. 

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THE AIRPORT OPERATOR SPRING 2019 42 From around the sector…

ATS has carried out a trial in a 20% loss of landing capacity. of the operation, we can use it to at Heathrow Airport to provide new tools that help them Nunderstand whether Artificial NATS has been deploying 20 make the best possible decisions Intelligence (AI) could be used to ultrahigh-definition cameras and and improve efficiency and safety. help cut flight delays. feeding the views into an AI platform Right now we’re focusing on when developed by Canada-based the control tower is in low cloud, A project nearing completion within Searidge Technologies. The platform where I’m confident we can make NATS’ digital tower laboratory at interprets the images, tracks the a very positive difference, but I am Heathrow has been testing whether a aircraft and informs the controller convinced that this technology can combination of ultra HD 4K cameras when it has left the runway, allowing totally revolutionise how air traffic and AI and machine learning the controller to decide to clear the is managed at airports around the technology could improve the next arrival. world”. airport’s landing capacity in times of low visibility. The trial is part of The non-operational trials are Kathryn Leahy, Heathrow’s Director a £2.5 million investment NATs has designed to test the feasibility of of Operations, said: “Our capacity made in a ‘digital tower laboratory’ introducing the technology into challenges are unique and we’re inside the Heathrow control tower. service later this year, subject always exploring new and innovative to approval by the Civil Aviation techniques to help us overcome Heathrow’s 87-metre tall control Authority. The same technology these constraints and improve the tower is the highest in the UK and its might also be used in the future to passenger experience in a safe and height can mean that it disappears control the airport’s third runway. resilient manner. We’ll be keeping into low cloud, even when the a close eye on this trial, as the runways below are clear. In those Andy Taylor, NATS Chief Solution technology could have a major role conditions, where the controllers Officer, said: “Safety is always our as we prepare for the expanded must rely on radar to know if an top priority and Artificial Intelligence airport. We will watch how AI and arriving aircraft has left the runway, is about supporting air traffic digital towers could be used to extra time is given between each controllers. While they remain monitor all of the expanded airport’s landing to ensure its safety, resulting the decision makers at the heart runways in the future”. 

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STANSTED AND CARDIFF WERE UK’S FASTEST GROWING AIRPORTS IN 2018

ondon Stansted Airport has in Sweden, where passenger traffic retained its position as the stalled in the wake of the introduction “According to ACI Europe Lfastest growing major airport in of an aviation tax and the UK, which figures, air passenger traffic the UK, with passenger numbers up ACI Europe attributes to “mounting across Europe’s airports grew 8.1% in 2018, its busiest ever year. Brexit fears on the economy”.  6.1% in 2018.” The airport welcomed over 28 million passengers, an increase of 2.1 million passengers compared to 2017, making it one of the top five fastest growing large airports in Europe. Stansted offers more scheduled services to Europe than any other airport, apart from Munich. Aiport Matters Unveiling the future of the aviation and Cardiff Airport was close behind airports industry in the passenger growth league table, with 8% growth in passenger A news-style programme from ITN Productions numbers in 2018. Passenger growth exploring the opportunities and challenges facing the at Cardiff has now reached 60% aviation industry from technological innovation, air- overall since the airport came under space modernisation, sustainability, air connectivity, public ownership in 2013. passenger experience, security and the commercial opportunities that enhanced travel brings. Other UK airports recording above average growth in passenger numbers in 2018 included Edinburgh (up 6.5%), London City (up 6.4%) Contact: [email protected] and Bristol (up 6.2%). to be involved!

Capacity-constrained Heathrow Airport recorded growth of 2.7% and passed the 80 million passenger mark for the first time. It remains the busiest airport in Europe.

According to ACI Europe figures, air passenger traffic across Europe’s airports grew 6.1% in 2018. The weakest results came from airports

for THE AIRPORT OPERATOR SPRING 2019 44 From around the sector…

NEW DRONE RESTRICTIONS TAKE EFFECT THIS MONTH

he Government’s new “no-fly” disruption caused by drones to fun, they are not posing a risk zone banning drones from flights at Gatwick and Heathrow to any other aircraft or people”. Tflying within 5 kilometres of UK recently highlighted the risks. While Information about the code can airport runways comes into force on the use of drones at Gatwick and be found at www.dronesafe.uk, a 13 March. Heathrow was already illegal, it is website developed by NATS and extremely important that regulation supported by the AOA. The Department for Transport has provides protection which reduces, written to airports asking them to as much as possible, the airspace The awareness campaign has been publicise the new rules. Transport where drones and manned aircraft launched in partnership with the UK Secretary, Chris Grayling, said that can come into close proximity with photographic retailing company, extending the zone would “help keep each other. The new restriction zone Jessops, who sell drones ranging our airports secure and our skies will include an airport’s aerodrome in price from £99 to over £3,000. safe”, adding “Anyone flying their traffic zone as well as 5 kilometre Ian Savage, Head of Retail and drone within the vicinity of an airport by 1 kilometre extensions from the Academy Training at the company, should know they are not only acting end of runways to protect take-off said: “Drones are one of the most irresponsibly, but criminally, and and landing paths. All drones will exciting ways of capturing stunning could face imprisonment”. be restricted from flying within this aerial photos and videos, and with zone unless appropriate permission prices more affordable than ever A new Drones Bill will give police is granted”. they are within reach of any budding officers powers to stop and search photographer and videographer. people suspected of using drones The Government and the Civil Along with the pleasure drones maliciously above 500 feet or within Aviation Authority (CAA) have also bring comes a responsibility for 5 kilometres of an airport, helping launched a national campaign to the user to ensure they are flying them to tackle disruption such as increase public awareness of the their drone safely and legally. As that seen at Gatwick last December. rules around flying drones. The one of the leading drone retailers, CAA’s updated drone code provides Jessops is committed to ensuring it Aviation Minister, Baroness Sugg, advice on how to fly drones safely communicates the new laws to all its told Parliament: “The highly and follow the rules “to help ensure customers”.  irresponsible and dangerous that while drone users are having

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eathrow Airport has signed Under the terms of the agreement, emphasised that the agreement its first-ever commercial Heathrow will establish a new growth was not intended to provide an Hagreement with the major incentive that will encourage airlines alternative framework for future airlines that use the airport to boost to increase passenger numbers at regulatory settlements, which would passenger growth and keep airport the airport ahead of expansion. continue to be determined by the charges down. Airlines at Heathrow currently CAA. It was: “based on commercial operate with loads below the global rebates supplementing existing The deal, signed last month by average. Heathrow said that: “If regulation, securing the protection the main alliance airlines, is worth airlines at Heathrow reached global that regulation currently provides “several hundred million pounds” averages for filling aircraft there is to investors and representing an and, according to Heathrow, “heralds an opportunity to reduce passenger additional offer to airlines reflecting a new phase of airport and airline charges by 10-20% against what Heathrow’s continued commitment commercial cooperation supporting they might otherwise be. With more to growing the airport and delivering growth at Heathrow”. passengers on each existing flight, for passengers”. Heathrow would be able to spread Subject to final approval by the the development costs of expansion John Holland-Kaye, Heathrow’s CEO, Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), the across a larger passenger base – said: “We have been working hard new arrangement would extend the helping to keep airport charges with our airline partners to agree a current regulatory settlement to the close to 2016 levels in real terms deal on airport charges to 2021. We end of 2021. The CAA has supported throughout the expansion project”. are delighted that the result is the the negotiation of the commercial first-ever commercial agreement at arrangement and is expected to Heathrow said that CAA approval Heathrow which will unlock hundreds launch a consultation on it shortly. would “allow all parties to focus of millions of pounds of potential The deal, which took several months their resources on agreeing the investment for our passengers. We to negotiate, would release funds to regulatory settlement that will be have shown that we can achieve drive investment and growth. in place during the main expansion more by working together and we works from 2022”. The airport will continue working to build on this momentum as we expand”. 

oganair has stepped in to take Loganair will establish a new Grayling, said: “This route is vital over six routes from collapsed operating base at Newcastle Airport because it strengthens the Union, Lairline, flybmi, at Aberdeen, and resume flights from Newcastle protects choice and boosts trade Newcastle and Derry airports. to Brussels and Stavanger from 25 and travel opportunities, enabling March. business trips to and from Derry- The Scottish airline resumed Londonderry within a day”. flights from Aberdeen to Bristol, The airline has also taken over the Esbjerg and Oslo from 4 March London Stansted route from City Jonathan Hinkles, Loganair’s and will face competition on the of Derry Airport. Flights resumed Managing Director, said: “There route to Esbjerg in Denmark from on the route, which is supported is no doubt that trading is tough, Danish Air Transport, who opened by Government funding through but Loganair is, we believe, in the a new service on the route on 25 a public service obligation, on 27 strongest position of any UK regional February. February. Transport Secretary, Chris airline”. 

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