How Delhi airport is using AI to reduce operational delays
What's the story
Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has launched the Unified Total Airside Management (UTAM) system, a state-of-the-art tech to streamline airside operations.
The UTAM system uses artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), Internet of Things (IoT), and radar systems to collect data, identify potential issues or delays, and issue alerts proactively.
The innovative solution aims to reduce delays, improve turnaround time, and monitor the speed of all airside vehicles for potential violations.
Operations overview
UTAM system's role in airside operations
Airside operations include tasks related to aircraft, including take-off, landing, parking, and refueling.
The UTAM system will provide a real-time view of aircraft movements within 16, 64, and 112-kilometer radii. It will also keep a tab on aircraft hovering in the airspace.
Apart from monitoring the use of baggage trolleys and parking stands, it will keep a tab on runway occupancy, taxiing time, and taxiway allocation.
Operational benefits
Impact on decision-making and efficiency
The UTAM system is expected to improve collaborative decision-making and make the airport operations control center more efficient.
It will keep a track of all airside vehicles, including baggage carts, fuel trucks, and maintenance vehicles in real-time.
The system will also ensure that Ground Support Equipment (GSE) stays on its designated path. In case of any violations, alerts will be issued promptly.
CEO statement
DIAL CEO emphasizes benefits of the new system
DIAL CEO Videh Kumar Jaipuriar emphasized the benefits of the UTAM system. He said, "UTAM will not only enhance operational efficiency but also ensure a safer environment for passengers and airport staff."
He added that by leveraging AI and ML, they can predict and prevent delays, optimize turnarounds, and ensure smoother coordination between stakeholders like airlines, ground handlers, and security teams.
Pilot success
Successful pilot project with Akasa Airlines
DIAL has already conducted a successful pilot project of the UTAM system with Akasa Airlines.
The company intends to onboard other airlines in a phased manner over the next two to three months.
The Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), which is managed by DIAL, is India's busiest airport with around 1,300 flight movements daily.