Fraport Implements Assaia Software at Ljubljana Airport

Ljubljana Airport in Slovenia is the first Fraport Group airport to implement the software solution from the Swiss company Assaia to optimize ground handling processes. In addition to Ljubljana, the technology could also be applied at other Fraport-affiliated airports in the future.

(Frankfurt/Ljubljana) The software from Assaia is designed to improve processes during the so-called turnaround, which is the procedure for handling an aircraft after landing and preparing it for takeoff again. In Ljubljana, significant process optimizations were already achieved during the short test phase from January to February of this year. The use of the technology in process control noticeably reduced turnaround times on the apron by an average of about six minutes.

“We want to further optimize our handling processes. The goal is to keep the time required for the turnaround on the ground as short as possible. This benefits both passengers and our airline customers,” said Claus Grunow, Head of Corporate Strategy and Digitalization at Fraport AG. “We aim to achieve this for all our group airports and are therefore examining whether the software solution is also suitable for other locations where we are active.”

Deployment at Various Handling Positions

In Ljubljana, the software “Turnaround Control” developed by Assaia is used at various handling positions. The technology allows handling teams to quickly adjust processes and flexibly increase personnel deployment depending on the situation. The software records all process steps and thus provides important data for optimizing standard handling procedures. This allows workflows to be planned more accurately and thereby accelerated. This leads to improved punctuality and greater customer satisfaction.

“We rely on innovation to make our operations even more efficient,” emphasized Dr. Babett Stapel, Managing Director of Fraport Slovenija. “We chose Assaia’s technological solution also because of its extensive application range. Equally important for us was that the tool has already been successfully used at other airports. This way, we can ensure that it provides added value for us and the airlines, and ultimately also for our passengers.”

The software solution from Assaia is based on a combination of so-called computer vision technology, where cameras feed visual inputs into the computer during a handling process, and artificial intelligence that processes these inputs. The data is transmitted in real-time to the respective information systems of the airports, airlines, and ground handlers. The system provides both concrete warnings during individual processes and suggestions for long-term process optimization.

Supporting Ground Handling Service Providers in Turnaround Processes

Christiaan Heen, CEO of Assaia, explained: “We want to support airlines, airport operators, and ground handling service providers in improving their turnaround processes. Our software ensures that all procedural steps are followed correctly and efficiently. In addition to punctuality, it also concerns safety and sustainability. For example, warning signals can alert to potential dangers in a timely manner. Additionally, our software can help reduce the use of ground power units, making a significant contribution to climate protection.”

Photo: © Fraport