London Gatwick is trialling new Smart Stand technology, which could revolutionise the way aircraft turns are managed at the airport.

The ambitious, first-of-its-kind trial, which is being run with London Gatwick’s largest airline easyJet, enables a Turn Coordinator (TCO) to manage an aircraft turn from a control room, record turn events automatically and apply AI to predict when the plane is ready to leave.

It is hoped the new Smart Stand technology could enhance safety procedures and improve stand utilisation and efficiencies of the airport’s day-to-day operations.

By allowing jet bridge operators to manage aircraft turns without needing to attend every arriving aircraft, the Smart Stand has the potential to enable consistently fast turn arounds and help maintain punctuality.

The technology also has the potential to enhance the staff experience, with TCOs being able to more efficiently and effectively manage passenger arrivals from one central location and automating processes with easier to use reporting tools.

Anti-collision control technology could also further reduce the risk of potential damage to an aircraft from possible jet-bridge impact.

The first live trial took place on May 6th last year, and is expected to run until this summer.

Abhi Chacko, Head of Innovation, London Gatwick said: “London Gatwick is the world’s most efficient single-runway airport. We handle up to 55 movements an hour, and aircraft turnaround is the most important activity for maintaining on-time performance. Currently, activities are measured manually and have to be performed by staff on the ground, going from stand to stand.

“Smart Stand has the potential to significantly improve the aircraft turn process, bringing a range of benefits to airlines, ground handlers, the airport and most importantly, passengers. For example, once this innovation is approved for regular operations, it will enable aircraft to enter the Smart Stand and let passengers out, without anyone having to physically go the stand. This trial highlights our commitment to finding innovative solutions and we are excited to review the results.”

Hugh McConnellogue, Director of Gatwick, easyJet said: “As London Gatwick’s largest airline, with 22 million of our customers travelling through the airport each year, we are pleased to support the trial of initiatives like Smart Stand to help enhance airport resilience and passenger experience and we look forward to seeing the outcome of the trial.”

The innovation is part of VINCI Airports’ strategy to improve airport infrastructure and management, including the dissemination of innovative ideas across its network of more than 70 airports in 13 countries.  

London Gatwick is an Innovation Centre of Excellence for VINCI Airports, and Smart Stand is the latest in several innovative solutions pioneered by the airport. Others are now used in airports across the VINCI network, including the Airport Community App.

London Gatwick also recently hosted its inaugural Innovation Summit at its specialist, on-site STEM centre.

NEW LONDON GATWICK RESTAURANT SHOWCASES BEST OF SUSSEX PRODUCE

As part of London Gatwick’s aim to showcase local produce and boost the economy, the airport has celebrated the opening of Sussex House Kitchen and Bar.

This latest opening builds on London Gatwick joining Natural Partnerships CIC’s Sussex Six campaign in April last year, pledging to increase local produce on shelves and menus. The airport showcases 27 Sussex products – more than four times the initial commitment – alongside wines from Kent, while Surrey-based business Big Smoke Taphouse and Kitchen has a restaurant in the South Terminal.

The Sussex Six campaign is just one of several partnerships London Gatwick supports to continue to drive growth and will add to the almost £4bn the airport generated for the region in 2023.

Sussex House proudly serves 15 items from nine Sussex producers, including Silly Moo Cider, Sussex Bakes’ sticky toffee pudding, and Bush Barn Farm’s elderflower and rhubarb cordial. Passengers can also enjoy Sussex Garden London Dry Gin, distilled on-site at the world’s first airport gin distillery.

Richard Lennard, Economic Partnerships Manager, London Gatwick said: “This is a fantastic next step in our commitment to celebrate the very best of our local region. We are incredibly proud of the range of businesses and produce available on our doorstep, and are delighted to be able to bring that to a global audience of passengers travelling through London Gatwick., helping showcase Sussex to the world.”

Rachel Knowles, Cider Maker, Trenchmore Farm said: “We’re delighted to be working with London Gatwick, supplying Sussex House Kitchen and Bar with Silly Moo Cider. We make the cider on our family farm just 12 miles south of Gatwick and we’re proud our local airport is championing Sussex farmers and producers. Now we just need to go on holiday, so we have an excuse to stop by for a pint.”

BUSINESSES URGE GOVERNMENT TO SUPPORT EXPANSION PLANS

The Government has been urged by 174 groups representing at least 104,875 businesses to support London Gatwick’s Northern Runway plans.  

London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) and economic partnership Gatwick Diamond Initiative have separately written, on behalf of their members and stakeholders, to Secretary of State for Transport Heidi Alexander to endorse London Gatwick’s growth plans.  

They highlight how the airport’s plans to bring its Northern Runway into routine use closely align with the government’s ambition to unlock growth, boost the economy and create jobs.  

The Northern Runway, currently a backup, could be made operational as a second permanent runway. The project represents a £2.2 billion shovel-ready privately financed investment which could be operational by the end of the decade.  

The Planning Inspectorate has delivered its recommendation with the Government due to make a decision early next year. If approved, the Northern Runway plan will create a further 14,000 jobs and generate £1 billion in economic benefits every year.   

Brett North, Chair of the Gatwick Diamond Initiative, said: “We are pleased that even more business groups and their members have confirmed their support for this crucial infrastructure project. But we aren’t surprised. London Gatwick’s Northern Runway is a vital step for the South East economy and beyond. It will drive growth, create jobs, and ensure the region remains competitive. This investment reflects London Gatwick’s dedication to strengthening local and national economic resilience.  

“The initiative also aligns with the Government’s manifesto commitments to economic growth and collaboration with businesses, alongside the Government’s support for airport expansions that balance economic and environmental objectives. Better still, there is no burden on the taxpayer.”  

Karim Fatehi MBE, Chief Executive, London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), said: “London’s status as the world’s pre-eminent global city for business, tourism and trade is heavily reliant on the strength of the capital’s transport network. The aviation sector is vital to both London and the UK’s economy as it enables the flow of people, trade, and investment, across the entire country. Without robust aviation links, London risks losing its competitive edge on the international stage.”