COVID-19 has challenged airport forecasting and planning on an unprecedented level. With a solid methodology, the ability to produce new forecasts with a high frequency and to quickly translate these forecasts into operational plans, airports can overcome the challenge and ensure a successful recovery. The ability...
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| 3 steps to avoid bottlenecks at your security checkpoint | Summer is just around the corner, and for most airports, this means a peak in the number of passengers. With passenger numbers reaching a record high, airports are desperately looking to maximize capacity to ensure that they are prepared to handle the incoming flow of passengers. Investing enormous amounts of CAPEX and OPEX is too late, not to mention too risky.
This is why our team of experts share with you the three key actions all airport operation planners should take to avoid security waiting times.
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| 4 reasons your airport needs to adapt to new technologies and how to do it | 4 reasons your airport needs to adapt to new technologies and how to do itThe airport industry is going through a major business transformation. To ensure a smooth operation, you need to understand the triggers and how to adapt. This post explains the triggers, highlights the key technologies impacting airports now and in the future, and what elements to keep in mind when adopting them at your airport.The triggers behind the transformationThe transformation is fueled by four triggers:#1 The first trigger is passenger growth. Airports that have previously been able to operate without constraints are now feeling the pain of long lines snaking through the terminal, causing delays, unhappy passengers or misconnections resulting in social media uproar.#2 The second trigger is the rising importance of retail revenue: the increased significance of non-aeronautical revenue (NAR), is forcing airports to shift focus. At an airport conference, I overheard a vendor describing airports as malls with runways attached. This is in line with a recent ACI analysis that shows that retail concessions remain the largest source of non-aeronautical revenue for airports at 30.2% (ACI Economic Report March 2019).#3 The importance of retail revenue is closely tied with the third trigger, the need for increasing passenger satisfaction: Having a bad experience at the airport once, leaves the passenger with a lasting impression of not wanting to show up early, resulting in fewer sales and less revenue. Also, being stressed by the passenger journey through the airport reduces the desire to spend time in retail. Even though your airport may stay within your service level agreements for wait time at security or check-in, the actual passenger experience may still be poor, if lines snake outside the roped-off queuing area or if the airport layout causes confusion and a sense of chaos.#4 The final trigger is the increased applicability of new technologies. Biometrics, CT-scanners, and baggage tracking software have now reached a level of accuracy and affordability that can significantly improve processing times and security measures while making passengers happy. However, the technologies are not just plug ‘n play. Airports need to understand their operational processes and have a holistic approach to airport operations to gain the full benefit of adopting new technologies. The technologies driving the transformation and how they create a better airportThe first step before adopting new technologies is, therefore, to map your current processes and harness the data already available at your airport. The use of data-driven decision making and optimization goes a long way in improving both the passenger experience and ensuring growth without expansion. Furthermore, through data integration and the use of smart, easy-to-use planning tools you will be able to identify your airport’s specific operational pinch points, select which type of technologies to focus on and consider how they can supplement existing business processes. The following section briefly outlines key technologies and their value for different operational areas.Check-inIf your pinch point is within check-in, the future rhymes with taking control while introducing mobile infrastructure and continuing to push self-service:
Baggage
SecurityFor security, the main development centers around security level differentiation, biometric solutions, advanced scanners, and automated tray return systems.
Emigration / immigrationWithin emigration and immigration, the main development centers around biometrics, eGates and mobile apps.
Retail
What to consider when adopting new technologyWhen adopting new technology to your airport, there are some basic steps that you need to take to ensure you are getting the expected return on investment:
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| Airport operational planning software in high demand | The entrepreneurial business Copenhagen Optimization helps international airports with optimizing the airport operation. The company is experiencing great success and is now going for more growth with DKK 8 million (approx. 1.07 million EUR) in new capital and bring on a new, professional board with experienced business professionals.
The world's largest airports are growing fast and are meeting capacity limits. This has an impact on the passenger experience where passengers experience long wait times for check-in, security, and baggage handling.
On the basis of this development, Anders Dohn and Kasper Hounsgaard in December 2014 established Copenhagen Optimization and set out to help airports worldwide streamline and optimize operations with newly developed software solutions and know-how on airport operations. Since then they have progressed rapidly working with London Heathrow, Dublin, Munich, and Toronto airports, amongst others, whilst the company has grown from 2 to 15 employees.
Copenhagen Optimization now puts further impetus to the growth with an investment of DKK 8 million (approx. EUR 1.07 million) over the next two years. The capital will mainly be used to further develop the company's cloud-based platform for the planning of airport operations, Better Airport, as well as to lift business development.
The capital injection is a combination of private investment from several industry professionals and a loan from the Growth Fund (investment fund backed by the Danish government). To further support growth, Copenhagen Optimization has established a new board with Jens Willumsen, former VP at Scandinavian Airlines, as chairman.
"With a solid capital base, a professional board, as well as expansion of the team with Sarah Procter as director of sales and marketing, we are ready to take Copenhagen Optimization to the next level. We focus on developing Better Airport and have large ambitions for further growth," says Kasper Hounsgaard, who, like his co-director Anders Dohn, has a background working at Copenhagen Airports.
Better Airport allows airports to perform capacity planning, budgeting, and operational planning in a unified platform. The platform is already used in a number of airports and has been shown to reduce personnel costs by over 10 percent as well as give more control, accuracy, and insight into planning. Copenhagen Optimization focuses on expanding the scope of the existing modules and adding new modules for Better Airport.
For further information contact: Kasper Hounsgaard, telephone +45 51 34 10 69
About Copenhagen OptimizationCopenhagen Optimization is a leading provider of consultancy and software focused on operational planning activities in airports. Copenhagen Optimization has grown quickly since its founding in December 2014. Now working with more than 15 airports across the world on all aspects of the airport operation. Embracing latest best practice with cloud-based software, Copenhagen Optimization delivers substantial value with its intelligent and intuitive Better Airport planning platform. For more information, visit www.copopt.com. Facts on Copenhagen Optimization
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| Better Airport® Partners With JFKIAT to Enhance Use of Data and AI at JFK Terminal 4 | Copenhagen Optimization expands its partnership with JFKIATCopenhagen Optimization today announced its partnership with JFKIAT to implement its Better Airport software to support operations at JFK’s Terminal 4. Adding Better Forecast and Better Baggage modules to their current portfolio, JFKIAT continues to consolidate solutions in one common operating platform providing an innovative approach to operations and processes while enhancing proactive decision making. The adoption of Better Airport software represents an expansion of JFKIAT’s partnership with Denmark-based Copenhagen Optimization. During the course of the COVID-19 pandemic, JFKIAT used Better Airport software to add further value to real-time data collected to monitor and handle social distancing at T4.“We are excited that JFKIAT has chosen to expand our partnership and consolidate systems with our Better Airport solution,” said Kasper Hounsgaard, CEO of Copenhagen Optimization. “We are confident that with the Better Airport solution, JFKIAT and its dedicated team will become even better equipped to achieve their mission of providing a best-in-class customer experience and ensure the highest levels of safety and security.”The Better Airport solution will consolidate existing systems at T4 and will form the basis of a new common operating and communications platform sharing access with a range of both internal and external stakeholders. This move reflects a shared belief between JFKIAT and Copenhagen Optimization that significant synergies can be achieved by bringing users onto the same platform to break down silos and continuously share valuable information being created throughout the organization. “We are pleased to expand our proven partnership with Copenhagen Optimization, taking the next step on our journey towards incorporating data-driven innovation at T4,” said Roel Huinink, President and CEO of JFKIAT. “In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, we directed our innovation efforts to improve and transform our processes and procedures by implementing new technology, elevating safety practices, and striving to achieve higher standards to ensure T4’s preparedness for the next normal of air travel. Choosing to consolidate our systems within the Better Airport solution will not only optimize our operations, but will also help us to ensure a first-class customer experience and support our vision to be New York’s leading digital terminal through innovation, data and technology.”About Copenhagen Optimization Copenhagen Optimization is a leading provider of software and consultancy focused on airports’ operational planning and execution activities. Copenhagen Optimization has grown quickly since its founding in 2014 and is now working with more than 50 airports across the world on all aspects of the airport operation. Embracing the latest best practice within machine learning and cloud-based software, Copenhagen Optimization delivers substantial value with its intelligent and intuitive Better Airport® planning solution. For more information, visit www.copopt.com. About JFKIAT JFK International Air Terminal, LLC. (JFKIAT) is the operator of Terminal 4 at John F. Kennedy International Airport, one of the most active air terminals in the New York area, serving 33 international and domestic airlines with an annual passenger volume of more than 21 million travelers in 2019. Terminal 4 is the first existing airport terminal in the U.S. to receive LEED Gold certification by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) for operations and maintenance. The Terminal’s expansive Retail Lounge offers an unparalleled experience for travelers with a wide range of food and beverage and retail options, from chic to upscale and from convenience stores, to electronics, accessories and gifts. Terminal 4 was the first air terminal in North America operated by a private management company. JFKIAT’s managing member is Schiphol USA Inc., a U.S. affiliate of Royal Schiphol Group. Visit us at www.jfkt4.nyc, like us on Instagram and follow us on Facebook and Twitter. | ||
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| Case Study - BETTER FORECAST – A PART OF BETTER AIRPORT® EDINBURGH AIRPORT | Using Better Forecast, Edinburgh Airport has been able to increase its forecast accuracy to over 95%, while spending significantly less time on forecasting.
Copenhagen Optimization participated in a competitive process for Edinburgh Airport (EDI) when selecting their new forecasting tool. As part of the competitive process, a forecast competition was carried out to evaluate the accuracy of the forecast and the time required to produce the forecast, among other things. The feedback from the EDI team was that Better Forecast delivered superior user experience and clearly delivered the highest accuracy among the competitors.
Following the competition, integrations to the EDI data warehouse were created, which ensures seamless and continuous updates of all relevant input to Better Forecast. EDI was able to reduce the time spend on forecasting significantly. This was primarily achieved by an innovative approach to automation and improvement to the forecast accuracy with a minimum need for manual adjustments.
“Since implementing Better Forecast our planning team has been able to drop the use of cumbersome excel models and move from several days to produce a forecast to a matter of hours. We see Better Forecast as delivering an excellent user experience (enabling less reliance on key personnel), a significant improvement in our speed to produce a forecast and importantly more accurate forecasts that our teams are able to rely upon.”Says Zoë Todd, Head of Business Planning, Edinburgh Airport The Project―The average daily forecast accuracy increased to over 95% ―100% of the days are forecasted within ± 10%. ―Forecasting is no longer dependent on the skills and knowledge of single employees. ―Significant reduction in the need for manual work in the forecast process. ―After fully implementing Better Forecast, EDI also did a trial and procured Better Check-in. After experiencing the benefits of multiple modules in the Better Airport portfolio, EDI is currently trialing other modules as well. | ||
| Case Study - Optimization of the Security Operation at Rhodes Airport | “We are very satisfied. We have seen significant improvements because of this project. Copenhagen Optimization delivered on everything they promised.” - Ilias Maragakis, COOFraport Greece engaged with Copenhagen Optimization to identify options for improving the security operation at Rhodes International Airport. The aspiration was to be able to introduce initiatives that would improve the operation quickly and before the approaching summer. At the same time, Fraport Greece was looking for initiatives that would make a positive long-term impact. 15 optimization initiatives were identified to improve the operation of the security checkpoints in T1 and T2 of Rhodes International Airport. The optimization initiatives were grouped and prioritized, and an implementation plan was developed to ensure the realization of the proposed initiatives. “We are already seeing a vast improvement in efficiency at the security points of Rhodes thanks to the streamlined operational improvements you and your team suggested.” - Dimitris Fragkos, Continuous Improvement ManagerThe optimization initiatives concerned both forecasting, planning, checkpoint layouts, improvements to equipment, new technologies, wayfinding and changes in staff tasks and responsibilities. An immediate positive impact was observed at the airport. THE PROJECT ― 15 optimization initiatives were identified ― A proposed implementation plan was developed ― Vast improvements in efficiency were realized immediately ― Specific initiatives for long term improvements were established | ||
| CASE STUDY: DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION STRATEGY AT EDMONTON INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT | Copenhagen, 5th August 2019 Scope of workEdmonton International Airport engaged with Copenhagen Optimization to create a Digital Transformation Strategy aimed at taking Edmonton to the forefront of innovative airport solutions and meet the needs of the passengers – now and in the future.
“CopOpt began by carrying out a Digital Maturity Assessment, appraising current processes and digital readiness at EIA across fifteen different business areas. They looked at where we have staff strengths and where we need to invest, so that our staff can really run a digital airport. Their recommendations were tangible and provided an action plan for digitalization”―Traci Bednard, VP, Digital, Edmonton International Airport The approachThe approach taken focused on involving all stakeholders at the airport and ensuring ownership. The current digital maturity assessed, key priorities identified, and an overarching strategy to digitalization developed. The final approach consists of a range of tangible initiatives and, in an everchanging technological reality, a process for continuously prioritizing what initiatives are likely to generate the most benefits for Edmonton.Results―Delivered a digital transformation strategy aimed at improving the passenger experience and taking EIA to the forefront of airport innovation ―Produced tangible initiatives in cooperation with EIA staff that are ready to implement ―Created a process of ensuring that the strategy is updated continuously to match the ever-changing opportunities and challenges in the airport industry ―Secured ownership throughout the organization by involving stakeholders at all stagesAbout Copenhagen OptimizationCopenhagen Optimization (CopOpt) is a combined software and consultancy company specialized in analyzing and planning the airport operation on a strategic, tactical, and operational level. CopOpt offers the cloud-based airport operational planning platform, Better Airport®. Through Better Airport®, airports create daily operational plans for all operational areas and update the plans in real-time as new information becomes available. Also, seasonal plans can be created in Better Airport® assuring that the right planning decisions are taken as far in advance as possible. CopOpt is working with more than 30 airports globally and have delivered significant benefits to users of Better Airport® including a 25% decrease in wait time at London Luton Airport, a 51% decrease in wait time at Geneva Airport as well as an absorbing 18% growth for check-in and baggage infrastructure at Toronto Pearson Airport. CopOpt is headquartered in Copenhagen – for more information visit www.copopt.com PRESS CONTACT Sarah Procter Copenhagen Optimization Livjægergade 17B 1.tv, 2100 København Ø Phone: +45 30 91 46 79 Email: procter@copopt.com www.copenhagenoptimization.com | ||
| CASE STUDY: Security optimization and layout design at Aéroports de Lyon | Copenhagen, 16th July 2019 Scope of workLyon Airport (LYS) part of Vinci Group, engaged with Copenhagen Optimization (CopOpt) to identify improvement initiatives to optimize the security checkpoint operation. This was achieved by completing on-site observation studies and data analysis using the Better Security solution – part of Better Airport®. The project was completed in 4 months. Two key areas were evaluated in the project. First, a review of the security checkpoint layout and the corresponding passenger flow was conducted. Initiatives were suggested to improve the passenger experience and simplify the passenger journey. Second, an evaluation of the security operation was conducted using Better Security. Recommendations were proposed that will increase the x-ray and passenger throughput on security lanes as well as a Performance Evaluation Framework to improve the communication between the third party stakeholder providing staff for the checkpoint and LYS. Also, the effect of Centralized Image Processing (CIP) was assessed.“Lyon Airports were pleased to work with CopOpt's team, who has a great knowledge of airport operations. They were able to make adapted recommendations to our environment and performance expectations.“ says Stéphane DERIVRY, Security Manager, Aéroports de Lyon The results- A list of improvement initiatives to increase the image throughout and passenger throughput per lane. Together the initiatives would enable a throughput increase of up to approx. 80% if they are all implemented. - An improved queue maze layout at the entrance of security that simplifies the passenger journey, maximizes available space, and increases passenger satisfactionAbout Copenhagen OptimizationCopenhagen Optimization (CopOpt) is a combined software and consultancy company specialized in analyzing and planning the airport operation on a strategic, tactical, and operational level. CopOpt offers the cloud-based airport operational planning platform, Better Airport®. Through Better Airport®, airports create daily operational plans for all operational areas and update the plans in real-time as new information becomes available. Also, seasonal plans can be created in Better Airport® assuring that the right planning decisions are taken as far in advance as possible. CopOpt is working with more than 30 airports globally and have delivered significant benefits to users of Better Airport® including a 25% decrease in wait time at London Luton Airport, a 51% decrease in wait time at Geneva Airport as well as an absorbing 18% growth for check-in and baggage infrastructure at Toronto Pearson Airport. CopOpt is headquartered in Copenhagen – for more information visit www.copopt.com PRESS CONTACT Sarah Procter Copenhagen Optimization Livjægergade 17B 1.tv, 2100 København Ø Phone: +45 30 91 46 79 Email: procter@copopt.com www.copenhagenoptimization.com | ||
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| Consolidation of systems for planning the airport operation – the key driver for efficiency | Covid-19, and its derived volatility in traffic schedules and impact on the airport operation, has highlighted the need to have a strong link between forecasting, planning and operations to quickly adapt to changing circumstances and optimize the operation accordingly. Today, many airports still rely heavily on in-house developed Excel tools or disparate legacy systems, limiting their ability to quickly turn new information and data into tangible recommendations. This reliability also blocks the synergies that can be obtained by bringing forecasters, planners, and operators to the same solution. Click here to read the full blog post written for Passenger Terminal Today. | ||
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| Copenhagen Optimization attending Future Travel Experience Global, Las Vegas, 3-6th September 2019 | Exhibitor SpotlightWho is Copenhagen Optimization?At Copenhagen Optimization our software solutions and services help you forecast and manage traffic more efficiently through optimized operational plans to improve throughput, resource utilization, and customer experience. Based on our experience working for international airports, we have developed a collaborative, user-friendly online software solution that will kick your business into a higher gear, Better Airport®. Visit FTE Global to explore new technologies and take something valuable back to your colleagues in the office and make sure to visit Copenhagen Optimization for a demo and talk on how we can help your airport optimize its operations and passenger services!What makes our products/services stand out?Our Unique Selling Points (USPs) are one of the key drivers for the significant penetration we have been able to carry out in the last three years in which Better Airport® has been available to the market. We have won contracts with some of the largest airports in the world, including London Heathrow, New York JFK, and Tokyo Narita. Our key USPs are:
What brings Copenhagen Optimization to the FTE Global EXPO this year?This is the third year we are exhibiting at FTE Global, and we have had great success in the two previous years. This year we are having a larger setup and are very much looking forward to re-connect with existing contacts and meet new contacts with whom to build cooperation. Also, we are eager to show all the latest additions to Better Airport® and share experiences from the more than 15 airports globally benefitting from Better Airport®. We are also looking forward to the new setup at ARIA, and with a bit of luck, we can ride an autonomous vehicle from the airport to ARIA.Why should visitors come to Copenhagen Optimization stand E3Aviation stakeholders can expect to see a demo of how data and advanced mathematical algorithms are applied in Better Airport® to generate accurate forecasts and operational plans that you can trust, enabling both operational optimization and collaborative decision making across all operational stakeholders. Although advanced on the inside, Better Airport® provides an easy-to-use, and incredibly intuitive user interface making operational planning both fast and easy. Better Airport® covers all main processes along the passenger journey through the airport and serves as a platform for communication, assuring that everybody is working off the same plan. Therefore, Better Airport® also fits nicely in an Airport Operations Center, delivering Total Airport Management. With Better Airport® - growth without expansion is possible – and we can show you how at FTE Global. Visit us at FTE Global in Vegas Booth #E3 for a dialogue around how we can help your business thrive today!Which technology or trend do you think will have the biggest impact on the air transport industry in 2019?We believe that this will be the year where collaboration between being airlines, airports, and government bodies will take off. We are starting to see the first real benefits of A-CDM in Europe and US government bodies actively working with airports to embrace wait time tracking technology. Next up is taking this valuable data and applying it actively to improve the airport operation. Better Airport® is a perfect fit to EUROCONTROL´s Airport Operational Plan concept, and Better Airport® has been demonstrated successfully with TSA through their Innovation Task Force, so we are a key collaborator supporting this trend. See you there! Kasper Hounsgaard
Heide Granberg 
Sarah F Procter 
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| Copenhagen Optimization awarded Børsen Gazelle 2019 | Copenhagen Optimization wins Børsen Gazelle 2019, Copenhagen, Dec 10th, 2019
Copenhagen Optimization has today received its first Børsen Gazelle Award at the awards ceremony held in the heart of Copenhagen, Denmark.
Since 1995, the daily Børsen has each year identified Denmark’s growth elite, and over time the word “gazelle” has become part of the Danish language as a synonym for growth businesses. The criteria are objective and based on data from the Danish Commerce and Companies Agency. In short, the definition of a gazelle is a business which has achieved continuous growth in revenue or gross profit for the last four financial years, and which has, in total, more than doubled the revenue or the gross profit in the period.
“We are incredibly proud to receive this recognized award and it shows that our hard work and persistence is paying off. We enjoy the success because all our employees feel part of the team and we believe in improving the way airports and hospitals operate.” says managing partner and founder, Mr. Anders Dohn.Since its founding in 2014, CopOpt has become a leader in airport operations planning by combining in-depth operations research with hands-on airport operations experience in numerous airports around the world. Better Airport® - a cloud-based solution for all operational areas in an airport - enables airports to carry out all operational planning using one common operating platform. This approach has also been applied successfully at multiple hospitals in Denmark to improve the planning with significant results achieved. “The strategy and the work we do is paying off, and the gazelle award is a testimonial to that,” says managing Partner and founder, Kasper Hounsgaard, who unfortunately was unable to attend the ceremony due to business activities in the USA.In 2017, Copenhagen Optimization was recognized as a runner up in the EY Entrepreneur of the Year award by Ernst and Young. About Copenhagen Optimization Copenhagen Optimization is a leading provider of consultancy and software focused on airports’ and hospitals´ operational planning activities. Copenhagen Optimization has grown quickly since its founding in 2014 and is now working with more than 50 airports across the world on all aspects of the airport operation. Embracing the latest best practice with cloud-based software, Copenhagen Optimization delivers substantial value with its intelligent and intuitive Better Airport® planning solution. For more information, visit www.copopt.com. Read more about the Gazelle prize https://borsen.dk/konferencer/gazeller.html The selection starts with over 560,000 VAT registered companies in Denmark. The demands on corporate form, line of business, and activity reduce the number of companies to about 33,000 (baseline-companies). The requirements on profitability and continuous growth in the period in question reduce the group by a further 30,000, leaving about 3,500 growth-companies. In 2010 1,051 companies had achieved more than 100 percent growth and could thus call themselves gazelles. The criteria for being a gazelle are:
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| Copenhagen Optimization becomes ISO 27001 certified | At Copenhagen Optimization, we are serious about information security. We believe that in a modern company, information security and data protection is fundamental to operating a healthy business.We have been trusted by our clients, employees, investors, and partners to handle their sensitive data and we are determined to live up to the legal and contractual responsibility that comes with this. Through recognized security measures, we establish a solid foundation for protection, and we ensure that this is always up to date and following modern standards to support the continuous growth and the strategic direction of the business. Information security is a top priority in our business strategy, and we are determined to live up to the highest standards. We believe this is achieved through a focus on high security standards on the technical setup and all the processes around it. Just as importantly it hinges on the awareness and continuous attention of all employees. We understand that in the modern world, the consequence of data loss and/or data inaccessibility can be disastrous and with an ever-present thread of cyber-attacks for all companies and individuals, information security cannot be disregarded. We believe that information security is built on three main pillars: • People • Processes • Technology The objective of the information security policy is to ensure that we work in line with the best practice standard of ISO 27001:2013, so that information security becomes a natural part of our way of doing business. The intent is to prevent disasters in this area from happening and having a disaster recovery plan ready if a disaster should happen. In addition, this policy is intended to give our clients peace of mind in knowing that the data and processes are secure, when working with Copenhagen Optimization. | ||
| Copenhagen Optimization host first ever Better Airport® user summit | Copenhagen, 10th May 2019 First ever Better Airport® user summit in CopenhagenNew functionalities, new clients and a milestone of 300 million passengers traveling through airports where Better Airport® is implemented. A lot has happened for Copenhagen Optimization over the past years making it the perfect time and opportunity to host our first ever Better Airport® user summit. The summit took place in Copenhagen, Denmark and was attended by 18 airport experts from 10 airports from all over the world. The two-day summit offered a unique opportunity for users of the software solution Better Airport® to share knowledge, explore and learn. “Our clients all obtain value from using Better Airport® but their focus areas and experience with the use of both data and Better Airport® varies. That is why we decided to invest in bringing all our clients together so that they may learn and share knowledge amongst each other,” says Kasper Hounsgaard, Managing Partner and co-founder of Copenhagen Optimization.Meeting in the magical Tivoli GardensUsers and guests at the summit included representatives from London Heathrow, Changi Singapore, Aberdeen, Glasgow, New York JFK T4 and Copenhagen airport. It was a great pleasure for the two founders Kasper Hounsgaard and Anders Dohn to welcome everyone in the magical surroundings of the famous Tivoli Gardens. Among the guest speakers were Ian Wisler-Poulsen from Tivoli Academy who shared his knowledge about service and Customer Experience Management in the Tivoli Gardens, and Mads W. Olsen from Intenz, who focused on Change Management in an airport context. Over the past year, Copenhagen Optimization have secured new contracts with airports in Europe, the US, and Asia. At the same time, a lot of functionality has been added to Better Airport®. “It is our ambition to help airports solve their key challenges. We do that best by providing them with the right platform but also with our deep knowledge of airport operations. A good understanding of our clients is key to delivering the right solutions,” says Tor Fog Justesen, Director, Products, at Copenhagen Optimization.“Participating in the Better Airport® user summit has been both informative and a great opportunity to meet many of the other airports who use the software solution. I certainly see the potential of airports coming together with Copenhagen Optimization to develop the best solution that will deliver on our business priorities” Says Shaun Dee, Operations Capacity Planning Manager at LHR. Technology and Change Management must go hand in handWhilst Copenhagen Optimization want to be the provider of the world’s best planning solution for airport operations, the company also takes pride in ensuring that value is achieved from a strong link between technology and change management.
"One example is London Heathrow (LHR) who recently joined the user family. LHR can use Better Airport® to support the skilled planning team at Heathrow and can now optimize and automate their current planning processes, including the ability to quantify any what-if scenarios with hard numbers, which will lead to better resource allocation and higher cost savings.” says Kasper Hounsgaard, Managing Partner and founder of Copenhagen Optimization. About Copenhagen OptimizationCopenhagen Optimization (CopOpt) is a combined software and consultancy company specialized in analyzing and planning the airport operation on a strategic, tactical, and operational level. CopOpt offers the cloud-based airport operational planning platform, Better Airport®. Through Better Airport®, airports create daily operational plans for all operational areas and update the plans in real-time as new information becomes available. Also, seasonal plans can be created in Better Airport® assuring that the right planning decisions are taken as far in advance as possible. CopOpt is working with more than 30 airports globally and have delivered significant benefits to users of Better Airport® including a 25% decrease in wait time at London Luton Airport, a 51% decrease in wait time at Geneva Airport as well as an absorbing 18% growth for check-in and baggage infrastructure at Toronto Pearson Airport. CopOpt is headquartered in Copenhagen – for more information visit www.copopt.com
PRESS CONTACT
Sarah Procter
Copenhagen Optimization
Livjægergade 17B 1.tv, 2100 København Ø
Phone: +45 30 91 46 79
Email: procter@copopt.com
www.copenhagenoptimization.com | ||
| Copenhagen Optimization improving the airport experience for more than 400 million passengers | Copenhagen Optimization improving the airport experience for more than 400 million passengers in 2019.In 2019, more than 400 million passengers will travel through airports where Better Airport® has been implemented. 2018 was a year of significant growth for us here at Copenhagen Optimization (CopOpt) and so far 2019 is above expectations. We managed to attract some of the world’s most popular airports, such as New York’s JFK airport, London Heathrow, and Tokyo Narita, to join the list of many other airports that have implemented our Better Airport® solution. Our Better Airport® solution has proven to make a real and tangible difference and improved the operational efficiency for airports, as well as enhanced the customer experience for passengers. Therefore, we are even more proud and excited than last year, to once again showcase our Better Airport® solution at a number of major exhibitions and shows including PTE, FTE global, FTE Asia, and AAAE. In preparation for this year’s FTE Global event, I interviewed our managing partner, Kasper Hounsgaard, who provided insights on what Better Airport® is, how it works, and what the future holds for CopOpt and the industry. What is Better Airport? Better Airport® is our cloud-based SaaS (Software-as-a-Service) platform for planning, execution, and evaluation of airport operations. Within Better Airport®, we have specific products covering all operational areas in the airport terminal - check-in, security, baggage, and border to name the main areas. These products receive a highly accurate forecast from our passenger forecasting solution, with accuracy levels well above 95%. How does it improve the airport experience for passengers? Passengers will feel the difference through lower wait times, seamless flows, and a more efficient airport operation in general. What do airport clients value the most? A key element to the success of Better Airport®, which our clients keep mentioning, is the inclusion of the passenger and baggage flows in the planning and allocation of airport infrastructure. Better Airport® is also unique in its ability to cover all operational areas across all planning periods in one platform, from capacity to real-time execution of plans. This makes Better Airport® a powerful communication platform, where all stakeholders work off the same plan. How do you set it up? Together with our airport clients, we initially calibrate Better Airport® based on input from other technologies such as automated passenger tracking solutions, boarding card scans, baggage system data and more ensuring the production of accurate plans that can be trusted. How do you access it? It is accessible from any web browser and only requires a log-in. How will the airport planning solution market evolve? There is a large mass of great technologies out there. We believe that the real revolution for the market lies in collaboration, and in making sure that all the various technologies are tied together and can communicate with one another. How will CopOpt play a role in this “revolution”? We are working actively with multiple innovative companies to bring a complete solution to airports, which can compete with the existing offerings from the major players in the industry. What does the future hold for CopOpt? We continue to strive to make a difference, by bringing some much-needed innovation to airports globally. In 2019 more than 400 million passengers will travel through airports where Better Airport® is implemented. Where can Airports see Better Airport® and experience the software hands-on? We always encourage our clients and prospect clients to talk directly with each other. This is also why Copenhagen Optimization hosted a Better Airport® user summit earlier this year bringing together clients from airports all over the world. It was very successful and airports shared best practice and discussed the roadmap for Better Airport®. Another great opportunity to view the software on display is at the upcoming Future Travel Experience Global exhibition in Las Vegas from September 4 to September 6. This event is where the air transport and travel industry’s most forward-thinking vendors showcase their latest products, services, and concepts that have been designed to help airlines and airports improve the passenger experience, reduce costs, increase revenues, and enhance operational efficiency both on the ground and on-board aircraft. We are showcasing our award-winning SaaS solution, Better Airport®, and exhibiting at stand E3. We encourage airports of all sizes to participate in this event as well as reach out to our team for more information on how more data-driven decision making can help deliver optimized operations. About Copenhagen Optimization Copenhagen Optimization (CopOpt) is a combined software and consultancy company specialized in analyzing and planning the airport operation on a strategic, tactical, and operational level. CopOpt offers the cloud-based airport operational planning platform, Better Airport®. Through Better Airport®, airports create daily operational plans for all operational areas and update the plans in real-time as new information becomes available. Also, seasonal plans can be created in Better Airport® assuring that the right planning decisions are taken as far in advance as possible. CopOpt is working with more than 40 airports globally and have delivered significant benefits to users of Better Airport® including a 25% decrease in wait time at London Luton Airport, a 51% decrease in wait time at Geneva Airport as well as absorbing 18% growth for check-in and baggage infrastructure at Toronto Pearson Airport. CopOpt is headquartered in Copenhagen – for more information visit www.copopt.com PRESS CONTACT Sarah Procter Copenhagen Optimization Livjægergade 17B 1.tv, 2100 København Ø Phone: +45 30 91 46 79 Email: procter@copopt.com www.copenhagenoptimization.com | ||
| Copenhagen Optimization is piloting its Virtual Queuing Solution at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) | This is the first pilot program in North America, and it is set to modernize the airport experience at security screening checkpoints by reducing wait times and decrease crowding.As Virtual Queuing is starting to generate significant interest at airports around the world, SEA is innovating their seamless travel experience by exploring digital reservations for the TSA general security checkpoints in cooperation with Pangiam and powered by Whyline and Copenhagen Optimization. The pilot went live yesterday, May 4th, and the aim is to improve ease at the airport while also modernizing the passenger experience. SEA is the first airport in North America to investigate a Virtual Queuing system as a solution for crowded, general screening lines. The pilot powered by Copenhagen Optimization´s Better Airport solution will operate daily through August 31, 2021 at Checkpoint 5 and be dedicated to Alaska Airlines’ passengers. The solution is called SEA Spot Saver, and it is a free, reservation-based system. The pilot program will test if SEA Spot Saver successfully reduces wait times and decreases crowding to better maintain physical distancing.“These are the innovations and ideas that we love to make our guest experiences more convenient and stress-free, especially as more people get back flying again,” said Charu Jain, Alaska’s Senior Vice President of merchandising and innovation. “With very little effort, guests can lean on technology to get them through the security process quicker.”Security screening zones are one of the most tightly constrained and consistently crowded areas of SEA, which is why testing the benefits of Virtual Queuing is especially relevant here. The program is set to help provide a better screening experience and create efficiency where demand is the highest. “We can use technology to make the travel experience more streamlined and intuitive,” said Port of Seattle Commissioner Sam Cho. “We appreciate the partnership of passengers and airlines to help test these programs for the benefit of our community.” Positive impact on the airport operationRecently, the implementation of Virtual Queuing at airports has been accelerated by the regulations on physical distancing to fight the COVID-19 outbreak. However, for airports, the benefits extend far beyond the provision of safer environments to passengers and employees.“Virtual Queuing, if applied correctly, can have a significant, positive impact on the airport operation,” said Kasper Hounsgaard, CEO of Copenhagen Optimization. “It will give SEA reliable intelligence on the demand at their security operations across the day, it will allow them to predict queues, and queue areas can be organized accordingly to adhere to physical distancing demands.”At the same time, Virtual Queuing will benefit passengers by minimizing their time spent queuing, giving them a higher certainty about their security screening time and allowing them to spend their time elsewhere at the airport. Following the pilot completion in August, SEA will evaluate usage with passengers, analyze customer feedback, and evaluate increases to line efficiency. If successful, SEA hopes to launch a broader program as they continue to use staffing and technology to make the security checkpoint experience as efficient as possible. Read the full press release from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport here. About Copenhagen OptimizationCopenhagen Optimization is a joint software and consultancy company specializing in improving airport operations. We have practical experience from some of the world’s biggest airports, combined with background and experience within mathematical optimization and machine learning. All of this is encapsulated in our software solution BETTER AIRPORT® which enables airport operators to plan and execute their entire airport operation – before day of operation and in real-time and from curb to gate and back. Better Airport is a cloud-based solution that uses airport data and advanced mathematical algorithms to generate accurate forecasts and operational plans through an easy-to-use and incredibly intuitive user interface. It is currently deployed and live in operations in more than 20 airports globally, including JFK Terminal 4, London Heathrow, and Singapore Changi.For more information:Sarah F. Procter Sales & Marketing Director P: +45 30914679 M: procter@copopt.com | ||
| Copenhagen Optimization nominated to Entrepreneur Of The Year Award 2017 | Copenhagen Optimization has been nominated for the Ernst and Young Entrepreneur Of The Year 2017 Award. The EY Entrepreneur Of The Year is the world’s most recognized growth cabinet competition, celebrating and honoring the best entrepreneurs in Denmark and Globally.The competition aims to recognize the women and men who build and run successful, expanding and dynamic companies and celebrate their success and contribution to our society. With the Entrepreneur Of The Year Award, EY has honored the best growth creators in Denmark for more than 20 years, putting the attention to the most exceptional among a unique group of people, creating jobs, prosperity and bringing new innovative products and concepts to the market. The Winner will be elected by an independent jury, and the winner will be announced 9th November. Copenhagen Optimization – company profile Copenhagen Optimization is a joint consultancy and software company delivering solutions aimed at improving airport operations through enhanced planning, execution, and evaluation of the operation. The team is often known as the "math wizards" who say "it is all about the numbers". Our services cover all operational areas, and we are working with strategic, tactical and operational projects. Since founding the company in 2014, they have worked with numerous airports across Europe, North America, and the Middle East and experienced an impressive double-digit growth. The team today comprises of 16 FTEs. Reference Clients Include London Heathrow Airport, Toronto Pearson Airport, Oman Int. Airport, Frankfurt Int. Airport, Munich Airport, Oslo Airport, Geneva Airport, Dublin Airport, London Luton Airport, Bristol Airport + more. Better Airport® is the product offering: Better Airport® is a cloud-based platform for the planning of all operational areas in an airport. Currently, Better Airport® consists of the solutions Better Security, Better Border, Better Check-in, and Better Forecast. Set for completion within the next 6-9 months are Better Stand/Gate and Better Baggage. | ||
| Copenhagen Optimization to attend Future Travel Experience Asia, Singapore Nov. 2019 | Future Travel Experience Asia takes place from November 12 – 13, 2019 in Singapore. Future Travel Experience Asia Expo (#FTEAsia) is Asia’s biggest free to attend passenger experience and business performance expo and focuses on airport and inflight innovation. The show provides an unrivalled platform for the industry’s most innovative solution, equipment and service providers from across Asia and beyond. Copenhagen Optimization will be speaking as well as exhibiting at FTE Asia in 2019 at the Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Center. The exhibition will host the most progressive suppliers from across the region as well as the best from around the world, who will come together to showcase their latest airline- and airport-focused products and services. Visit Copenhagen Optimization at booth C11 where we will be showcasing Better Airport® software solution and for a talk on how we can help your airport optimize BETTER AIRPORT® consists of a suite of products covering the entire airport journey and serves as a platform for communication, allowing analysts, planners, dispatchers and management to collaborate effectively and efficiently. All of this makes BETTER AIRPORT® a perfect fit for the Airport Operations Center delivering Total Airport Management. http://www.futuretravelexperience.com/fteasia/ Copenhagen Optimization is a joint software and consultancy company. We are airport professionals with extensive consulting experience, and we have used our insights to create BETTER AIRPORT®, a cloud-based software solution for planning of all operational areas in an airport. | ||
| Copenhagen Optimization to exhibit and showcase Better Airport® at AAAE in San Diego 15th-17th April 2018 | The 90th American Association of Airport Executives will take place in San Diego 15th-18th April and Copenhagen Optimization is exhibiting at the show. Copenhagen Optimization can be found at stand #244. Come see us for a talk about how the new and innovative technology: Better Airport can help your airport optimize through improved planning, execution, and evaluation of the airport operation. For details on the event please visit https://www.aaae.org/ For more information on the services including the technology Better Airport ® please visit https://copenhagenoptimization.com/better-airport/ | ||
| Copenhagen Optimization with Better Airport®winner of International Airport Review Awards 2018 | Copenhagen Optimization announced as the winner by International Airport Review Awards 2018 COPENHAGEN - December 2018 - Copenhagen Optimization, the makers of the Better Airport® software solution, including Better Security which sits within the cloud-based solution, has been announced as the winner of the best Airport Security Solution by International Airport Review. In September, voting closed on the 2018 International Airport Awards; an award launched to celebrate industry excellence. The awards were open to airports and suppliers alike and invited organizations to submit entries which showcased innovation in 11 particular categories across the airport and aviation industry. From over 80 submissions, the awards went to the public vote and after receiving more than 12,000 votes from engaged members of the industry. Using a combination of votes received and by judging each entry on its own individual merit a shortlist was created and subsequently then opened up to a select team of industry experts to decide on the winners in each category. Airport users of Better Security include Heathrow, Dublin, London Luton, and Geneva. Better Security is a dedicated module within Better Airport® allowing airports and staff providers to plan the all security check-point operation in a single platform. Unanticipated queues are a thing of the past as the checkpoint operation is simulated to precision ahead of the day of operation. This allows the entire team to plan the security operation all the way from budgeting to execution and to performance evaluation. Heathrow has selected Better Security, part of Better Airport® after an extensive software solution search and a one-month trial period with both Better Airport®’s security, check-in, and baggage modules implemented across the airport. Other category winners of the International Airport Review awards include Budapest Airport, Calgary Airport, and Hong Kong International Airport. "We are extremely proud and honored that our Better Security software solution has been recognized and voted by so many industry professionals," says Sarah Procter, Director Sales & Marketing. "It shows that airports around the world have been needing for a solution to help them to predict, plan and optimize their security check-point operation and that Better Security has delivered hands-on value to the teams responsible for the terminal operations." Copenhagen Optimization (CopOpt) is a combined software and consultancy company specialized in analyzing and planning the airport operation on a strategic, tactical, and operational level. CopOpt offers the cloud-based airport operational planning platform, Better Airport®. Through Better Airport®, airports create daily operational plans for all operational areas and update the plans in real-time as new information becomes available. Also, seasonal plans can be created in Better Airport® assuring that the right planning decisions are taken as far in advance as possible. CopOpt is working with more than 30 airports globally and have delivered significant benefits to users of Better Airport® including a 25% decrease in wait time at London Luton Airport, a 51% decrease in wait time at Geneva Airport as well as an absorbing 18% growth for check-in and baggage infrastructure at Toronto Pearson Airport. CopOpt is headquartered in Copenhagen – for more information visit www.copopt.com PRESS CONTACT Sarah Procter Copenhagen Optimization Livjægergade 17B 1.tv, 2100 København Ø Phone: +45 30 91 46 79 Email: procter@copopt.com www.copenhagenoptimization.com | ||
| Danish math wizards use big data to cut airport waiting time in half – and next they’re doing the same with hospitals | Source: Article from Business Insider Nordic, 01.06.2017
Danish startup Copenhagen Optimization has become the go-to-guys for making airports run more smoothly. Like they did at Genève Aéroport where the average waiting time was reduced by more than 50%.
Since 2015, the startup has worked with 20 airports around the world, improving their operations. At Dublin Airport, passenger throughput increased by 10% and in Stockholm Arlanda, peak in check-in counter demand was decreased by 5,5%.
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| Does your airport suffer from a fever? | Feeling unwell? Taking the temperature will tell you if you have a fever. You probably knew this already, but the display on the thermometer will tell you to a certainty of +/-0.5% exactly how burning hot you are. The thermometer, however, won’t tell you what you are suffering from, nor how to cure your illness.In an airport context, putting up, for example, a queue measurement system at security or at a check-in area will tell you the exact temperature of your waiting time. The dashboard will show you that right now, you have a queue of 22 minutes and are breaking your airport SLA by 12 minutes. It will not, however, tell you
Conclusion: A dashboard displaying problems is useful, as it will tell you that something is wrong. In order to get better, what airports need is a solution that can utilize that information and data in an intelligent way so that queues can be predicted and avoided.
Long queues are the worst airport illness of them all. Passengers are left frustrated, they feel like cattle being herded around, they feel nervous, worried, stressed, irritated. The result of this is
See the doctor!Having Copenhagen Optimization take a look at your airport operations is like seeing your doctor. We will give you the diagnostics and cure to your queueing and/or bottleneck nightmare. If you come to us knowing your temperature then it is great, but it is not a necessity. Your health can be improved significantly by looking at many other factors such as what have you been eating, when did you last eat, do you have any other symptoms? In an airport operational context, we look at past and realized flight schedules, historic boarding card scans and other data that tell us a great deal about your operation. We can help you benchmark your operation against other airports, and our expertise and experience will ensure that your airport's health improves quickly. Our solution Better Airport® for planning, execution, and evaluation of airport operations has helped airports around the world reduce waiting times and subsequently improve the overall passenger experience. We believe that improved planning is the key to a more successful airport operation, increased efficiency, and better passenger experience. So, in need of a health check? Call us today! Contact us at contact@copenhagenoptimization.com | ||
| Edinburgh Airport to improve passenger forecasting with the cloud-based planning solution, Better Forecast | Edinburgh Airport (EDI) has announced a new contract with Copenhagen Optimization (CopOpt) to introduce CopOpt's Better Forecast platform, in order to improve the accuracy of the passenger forecast while reducing the time spent on forecasting.CopOpt will deliver the Better Forecast solution through Better Airport®, its cloud-based planning platform. Better Airport® has already been successfully implemented at other international airports, including Toronto Pearson International Airport, Geneva Airport, Bologna Airport, and Dublin Airport. EDI is the busiest airport in Scotland and one of the fastest growing airports in the UK with more than 10% growth per year in recent years. At the same time, EDI strives to among the most efficient airports and is constantly looking for solutions that can help them achieve this. Since its founding in December 2014, CopOpt has become a leader in airport operations planning by combining in-depth operations research with hands-on airport operations experience in numerous airports around the world. Better Airport® - a cloud-based platform for all operational areas in an airport - enables airports to carry out all operational planning using one common platform. EDI selected Better Forecast through a competitive process where three different forecast solutions where trialed in a head-to-head competition. Among other metrics, the forecast accuracy, the time to complete a forecast, and the transparency in how the forecast is created were considered. Better Forecast delivered the highest accuracy at a significantly quicker pace through an easy-to-understand user experience. The passenger forecast is a key input to the security process and current users of Better Airport® have reported reduced waiting times, reduced stress levels for both staff and passengers, and increased staff efficiency after implementation of Better Forecast. This includes a 51% reduction in wait times at Geneva Airport while London Luton Airport have experienced a 25% reduction in wait times while maintaining a forecast accuracy of 96.7%. Anders Dohn, Managing Partner at CopOpt, said:“We enjoyed the head-to-head competition and were pleased to see how the EDI forecasting team were setting high standards for the forecasting process as well as for the accuracy of the forecast. The machine learning elements included in Better Forecast proved successful and significantly reduced the time required to make a forecast while securing a high accuracy.”Zoë Todd, Head of Integrated Business Planning at Edinburgh Airport, said: “This new forecasting solution will allow us to meet an increasing demand for more dynamic, timely and accurate security forecasting. Working with CopOpt we have reduced the time taken to produce the security forecast, demonstrated an improvement in forecast accuracy and have found an intuitive product that more than fits the needs of our Business Planning Team.About Copenhagen Optimization Copenhagen Optimization is a leading provider of consultancy and software focused on airports’ operational planning activities. Copenhagen Optimization has grown quickly since its founding in December 2014. Now working with more than 20 airports across the world on all aspects of the airport operation. Embracing latest best practice with cloud-based software, Copenhagen Optimization delivers substantial value with its intelligent and intuitive Better Airport® planning platform. For more information, visit www.copopt.com. About Edinburgh Airport: Edinburgh Airport is Scotland’s busiest airport, handling 13.4 million passengers in 2017 and flying to more than 150 destinations with almost 40 airlines, and improving the security forecast is a key element within our daily operation which is why we are delighted to be working with Copenhagen Optimisation on this. Press release by Edinburgh Airport, May 30th 2018. For questions please contact Sarah Procter Tel. +4530914679 | ||
| Edmonton International Airport to become the airport of the future | Digitization will provide a seamless travel experience and a more efficient airport As travel experts from around the world gather at the Future Travel Experience conference, September 10-12 in Las Vegas, Edmonton International Airport (EIA) is undergoing a comprehensive digital transformation to ensure it will meet travellers’ needs. EIA partnered with Copenhagen Optimization, a Danish company specializing in airport digital processes, to evaluate current digital maturity, identify key priorities and develop an overarching strategy to digitalization. The strategy will transform of all of EIA’s stand-alone systems and small system networks, into more integrated systems. The outcome will be a seamless passenger experience, better air operations and a smoother internal work environment. For example, airport maintenance would receive an automatic message from equipment on an aircraft boarding gate, which would trigger an inspection, an order for spare parts, reassignment of flights to new gates and information being passed to travellers’ mobile devices, all on the same system. This would not only be faster and easier but it would eliminate mistakes or late notifications. Further, using the internet of things a drone inspecting runways, an autonomous security vehicle and airport surveillance systems can all talk to each other and artificial intelligence can analyze the information to provide human operators with the exact details of a situation, allowing them to react more quickly and effectively. For more information contact: Chris Chodan EIA Communications cchodan@flyeia.com 780-700-3596 flyeia.com | ||
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| Free “BER Runway” Virtual Queuing Program Launches at Berlin Brandenburg Airport | Developed by Copenhagen Optimization and CLEAR, Program Allows Travelers to Reserve a Security Control Time Slot for a More Predictable Travel ExperienceBER Becomes First European Airport to Introduce Virtual Queuing Solution; Program Marks CLEAR’s First Expansion into Europe Berlin, Germany – Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER), Copenhagen Optimization, and CLEAR (NYSE: YOU) today announced the launch of a free virtual queuing program, called “BER Runway.” Developed by Copenhagen Optimization and CLEAR, BER Runway allows travelers to plan ahead and reserve a dedicated security time slot for their party – giving them a more predictable and stress-free travel experience. With the launch, BER becomes the first European airport to implement the virtual queuing solution; the program also marks CLEAR’s entry into Europe.“BER Runway provides our passengers with an attractive, free service. It allows them to plan their stay at the airport more reliably and make their journey less stressful,” said Thomas Hoff Anderson, Managing Director Operations at Flughafen Berlin Brandenburg GmbH. “The BER Runway is also an important step on the way to further digitizing operations at our airport. This will enable us to further optimize all processes in the interest of our passengers in the future.” “Allowing the passenger to be in control of their journey is the future of air transportation,” said Kasper Hounsgaard, co-CEO of Copenhagen Optimization. “Our virtual queuing solution is a game-changer in the personalized airport experience. More relaxed and happier passengers benefit the commercial part of business while nudging passengers to arrive outside the peak periods improves the operation. As the virtual queuing solution integrates seamlessly with any airport system, it is a viable solution for any airport to take on.” “With this expansion, a whole new international market will be able to experience what the CLEAR brand stands for: frictionless, stress-free experiences,” said CLEAR CEO Caryn Seidman-Becker. “We’re excited to partner with the entire Berlin Brandenburg community to make the airport experience better for both the airport and the traveler and to bring the CLEAR brand to the European market.”How It Works
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| How airports are impacted by the proposed Europe - U.S. ban on laptops (Airport Security) | The ban on carrying laptops into the aircraft cabin, currently in place for several countries in the Middle East, is rumored to be extended to cover all European destinations including the UK. This afternoon the team at Copenhagen Optimization discussed what it will mean for airports and the passenger experience for the Europe – U.S. traffic.Read our take on the three major impacts on airport operations here:
Final remarksTo sum it up, the passenger, used to traveling hand luggage only, is most impacted by the ban. Airports may experience added check-in and reclaim demand, though we expect it to be minor. Largest airport effect will be for increased security equipment. Airlines may face delays and added staff for hand luggage screening/searching. The winner in case of a laptop ban: Air Canada who will see frequent travelers selecting to transfer through the Air Canada hubs in Toronto and Vancouver when going to the U.S. We would very much welcome your input and continue our office talks online. More on the laptop ban: http://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/laptop-ban-us-uk-extend-europe-electronic-devices-north-africa-london-heathrow-a7729511.html https://skift.com/2017/05/10/u-s-to-ban-laptops-on-all-flights-from-europe/ | ||
| How airports can leverage their data and overcome COVID-19 | Through daily operations, airports are producing vast amounts of data. However, for many airports the use of data remains an untapped potential. COVID-19 and its severe effect on aviation has highlighted a need for airports to be more agile when planning operations. Optimized utilization of existing data will become the foundation of COVID-19 recovery. Airports will need to adopt a data-driven approach to operations ensuring compliance with guidelines and the need for physical distancing, while simultaneously adapting to an evolving demand of the use of infrastructure.
An opportunity driven mindset during crisisThe first step towards becoming a more data-driven organization is to realize the potential of available data, more so than considering the lack of data as a challenge. Even the very best airports in the world do not have full data coverage. Airports that are successful work with what they have, understand what they need, and how they can improve for the future. Industry knowledge, benchmark data, alternative data sources, and the like can produce planning, analytics, and improvement initiatives that significantly improve and prepare operations for COVID-19 recovery. Airports should still strive to improve the collection and quality of data, however, this process is only reinforced by gaining knowledge and experience by working with what is presently available.Airport data: There is more than enough to beginTo demonstrate the variety of data sources available, let us consider planning for physical distancing at check-in. To do so, we need to understand:
Recovery after COVID-19: One step at a timeAs stated above, using analysis and scenario planning as a means to handle COVID-19 is an opportunity to showcase the power of data and analytics at airports, while also supporting changing legacy processes. It will not be possible to obtain complete data coverage on all affected areas during the crisis. Still, it is possible to deliver tangible results, initiatives, and recommendations to support your airport operation by using already existing data. FIGURE 2: THE SKATEBOARD MODEL
Unleash data and create immediate valueThere are several challenges on the journey towards data excellence and operational optimization. Data is often collected for ad-hoc purposes with no enterprise data strategy to ensure effective and planned collection and storage of data. Data warehouses are in process but far from complete, making a central point of data collection and utilization inaccessible. This makes information sharing difficult with the risk of reinforcing organizational silos. Lastly, a critical challenge to achieve data driven decision making, is to ensure that all data is validated before using it as the foundation for operational decisions. Despite these challenges, the data coverage of any airport will be sufficient to get started. On average, 40-60% data coverage is adequate to create value. Gaps can be covered using benchmarks, until the organization evolve, and data coverage and quality improve. The only way to achieve data excellence is through experience and curiosity but too often, analytics and operationalization of data are postponed due to a perceived lack of data coverage. Instead of holding back, doubting if data coverage is sufficient, start by using what is available and build on that. This is how the journey towards unleashing data and creating value for both airport and passengers begins. Are you looking to leverage your data to create immediate value? Then get in touch. Contact Director of Consultancy Rasmus Kaster on kaster@copopt.com | ||
| How can airports optimize the security checkpoint operations with a third-party staff provider? |
A large number of airports have outsourced their security operation to a third party staff provider, primarily with the aim of obtaining a lower cost of the security operation. The overall planning process remains the same but compared to a fully in-house operation; the outsourcing often leads to challenges.
Three primary models exist for how the split in responsibility is done between the airport operator and the staff provider.
1. Performance drivenIn this model, the airport states a performance requirement, say 85% of passengers within 10 minutes, with no passenger waiting more than 20 minutes. The staffing provider is responsible for forecasting the passenger presentation, determining the lane opening plan, and securing accurate staffing levels. The airport typically pays on a per passenger basis under this model. Advantages Clear responsibilities – security provider is in charge of the full process If paid per passenger, staff provider is compensated for unforeseen growth Challenges Third party provider assumes risk of lower throughput due to a higher images per passenger ratio Lack of ability to optimize planning Incumbent provider will have a large advantage in a new tender Ownership of data – third party provider needs data which is owned by the airport operator – and airport operator may need data owned by the third party provider2. Ordering passengersIn this model, the airport is ordering passengers to be processed – typically in 30-minute intervals across the day. Connected to the passengers to be processed is a requirement for a given performance in place. The staff provider must be able to process the ordered passengers in each 30-minute interval. If a lower number of passengers is processed and waiting time occurs, the staff provider is penalized for the poor performance. Advantages Financially clear in that the airport operator pays for the passengers ordered Challenges Creates suboptimal lane opening plans as the focus on 30-minute intervals is not in line with best practice security planning (longer periods of time must be considered to be in line with best practice) Airport typically adding a significant buffer to the forecast to minimize the risk that forecasted passenger numbers are too low Changes in images per passenger not accounted for by the model (increasing numbers will hurt the staff provider, decreasing numbers will hurt the airport operator)3. Ordering open lanes or hoursIn this model, the airport orders a number of lanes to open across the day, alternatively a pool of lane hours to be distributed across the day. The staff provider must supply the staff required to open the lanes. Advantages The airport operator can utilize operational data to create accurate lane opening plans The airport operator is closely tied to the operation and can impact performance directly Challenges The risk is on the airport operator regarding the accuracy of the lane opening plan Real-time updates to the lane opening plan can be difficult for the staff provider to adhere toRecommendationIn all models, there is a need for a common platform supporting the planning of the security process. Copenhagen Optimization's cloud-based solutions ‘Better Forecast’ and ‘Better Security’ ensure a clear methodology and communication for all parties involved in the Security checkpoint operation and thus enables a win-win situation for all parties in the process, including the passenger of course! Want to learn more? Contact us at contact@copenhagenoptimization.com | ||
| How data is making your Airport more competitive | Think back five years – at that time most boarding card checks at the security checkpoint were manual with limited logging of information. Today, boarding cards are scanned at the automated boarding card control resulting in actual arrival times of all passengers passing through the security checkpoint. Another example is the automated tracking of passengers waiting for check-in through innovative sensor or video technologies.
Airports are collecting all this information – in more or less structured ways. A few airports have a single data warehouse where all information resides with significantly more airports developing one or more data warehouses. The collection of data builds the foundation for creating accurate input parameters for planning your airport operation – though a number of pitfalls exist.
Data collected in an operational environment contains a lot of “noise,” that is, a lot of inaccurate raw data, which must be discarded before the creation of input parameters to be used in the planning. The elimination of inaccurate data should follow best practice for outlier detection and be automated. Additionally, the accuracy of the input parameters should continuously be tracked as part of the evaluation of the performance of the operation and the plan. With such a structure in place, significant value can be gained from the data collected.
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To exemplify a single input parameter, consider the images per passenger rate. Through our work with numerous European airports, we find that the x-ray machine is the bottleneck at the security checkpoint. To address this bottleneck, we need to estimate the image per passenger rate in 5-minute intervals across the day. This is done using data from x-ray machines on number of images processed every 5 minutes compared to doorway counts. In doing the analysis, we need to correct for any double passages of the doorway – this is typically done by comparing to boarding card scans as well.
We work with the data together with our clients, either as part of a consultancy project with a specific aim or when assisting with the calibration of input parameters for our Better Airport solution. No planning solution has a higher accuracy than the accuracy of its input parameters and hence our focus on creating as accurate input parameters as possible.
Should you be interested in better understanding what improved the use of data can do for you – get in touch! | ||
| How should airports prioritize their 2018 budget best? | For many airports, the beginning of the new calendar year also means the beginning of a new budget year. Management groups in airports of all sizes and regions will be joining up to kick-off the identified strategic initiatives which they have identified in their airport strategy. I am sure some of you are familiar with this ongoing and at times tiring process So, how should airport managers make those priorities and be confident that the CAPEX investments yield the highest return?
What is trending in the Aviation industryIf we turn to what is trending in the industry market data shows that stronger economic growth is pushing traffic ahead of capacity globally. This leads to a need for more digitalization higher pressure on security regulations, privatization combined with higher pressure to drive efficiency and return on investment. In addition to this, infrastructure use costs are high, and inefficiencies in European airports alone add €3bn to airline costs in 2018. Passengers expect a smooth journey without queues, stress, and hassle. I think we can conclude that there are plenty reasons to put Airport Operational Management at the very top of the agenda in 2018 to the benefit of the passengers, airlines, airports, and investors as a whole.Why operationalization of the digital strategy should be the no. 1 initiative prioritized in the 2018 budgetA critical focus area for airports is to improve the passenger experience through enhancing the passenger flow (incl. commercial areas), the baggage flow, and the aircraft flow. Digitalization is making information available but only through operationalization of the data, that is, using the date to improve plans, is the full benefit from data realized. Ultimately this improves the passenger journey. Operational plans are no better than the quality of the data applied and hence, the identification and implementation of digital solutions is an essential element of the work that airports face in 2018. Furthermore, to reap the benefits of digitalization, there is a need to change the way airports work. Thus, change management is an enabler of successful digitalization and change management plays a key role in forming a Digital Airport Strategy.You cannot go wrong with prioritizing fixing “the basics” and moving to digitalBy bringing attention to fixing those “basic” elements and learning about your operation by looking at yesterday can take you far. The data is there, like low hanging fruit, ready to be picked. In fact – we have more than plenty of data, and there are solutions out there that can help bring the data to life. To be digital, we need to move beyond the adoption of technology and think in operationalization and practicality. What does the adoption of new technology offer regarding enhanced passenger experience but equally important how do they reduce operating costs?How can a single suite for airport operational management be a game changer?Investing in a solution that uses your data and advanced mathematical algorithms to generate accurate forecasts and operational plans will have a significant positive impact on your business. Through an easy-to-use and incredibly intuitive user interface collaborative decision making is enabled. A new offering on the market is Better Airport® which has the perfect fit for the Airport Operations Center delivering Total Airport Management by allowing data to be used practically and for relevant stakeholders to collaboratively decide on best plans. Moving to cloud-based technology also allows all staff pertinent to collaborate efficiently wherever they are. Transparent plans can be trusted and subsequently followed. Evaluation can be done to ensure the airport learn and improve daily.ConclusionSo, at your next management meeting or CAPEX investment budget meeting, ask yourself whether your airport organization has put enough thought into the operationalization of data. Has your organization fully identified the digital solutions that can help your airport efficiently manage the growth in passengers? Do your initiatives help you deliver the return on investments to your owners by delivering efficiencies? Do they help you utilize your infrastructure and delay the need for expansion? And ensure you can handle the next change to security regulations at your security or border checkpoint? For inspiration on how other airports have put attention to better airport management read following case stories London Heathrow Airport, Dublin Airport Authority, London Luton Airport, Swedavia | ||
| How will airports handle Electronic Trace Detection of laptops to the USA? |
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced their initial measure to counter the laptop threat: Electronic Trace Detection (ETD) of all laptops going to the USA from all international destinations.So, continuing from our previous blog post, how will airlines and airports tackle this demand operationally? We see three options:Option 1: Performing ETD at the security checkpoint for US-bound passengersOption 2: Performing ETD on all laptops at the security checkpointOption 3: Performing ETD at the gate for US flightsThe first option quickly falls apart for two apparent reasons. First, a passenger could buy a non-US ticket and pass through Security on that ticket while boarding a US flight. Secondly, have a laptop handed over in the secure area from another passenger. Performing ETD on all laptops at the security checkpoint will be an operational nightmare and will not be feasible. It would require significant investments in added equipment and added staff with the right certification. So that leaves Option 3. Performing ETD at gate operationally requires two primary functions:
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| Info Box Examples | |||
| Info Box Examples |
“One thing is that